By JENNY CAREY

MULTI-MILLION pound plans to develop college land into a hotel have made the grade according to planning bosses.

An application for a 150-room hotel on the Winwick Road campus of Warrington Collegiate Institute has been approved by the borough council's development control committee.

The 2.9 hectare site could also feature health facilities and a pub or restaurant.

College bosses had applied for planning permission as part of a sell-off scheme of unused land at both the Padgate and Winwick Road campuses, which would have generated around £7.5m for investment in facilities. But a scheme for the Padgate campus was refused after residents mounted a strong campaign of opposition.

Watchdog Sport England had originally objected to the Winwick Road plans because of the loss of the playing field, but withdrew its comments on condition that a legal agreement be reached between planners and college bosses. The agreement ensures the college will secure suitable replacement sports pitch provision.

There were no comments from neighbours.

In the past, the field has been used for tipping and will have to be checked for contamination before the land is sold.

Alan Grant, vice-principal of Warrington Collegiate Institute, believes the development will benefit the college's students. He said: "We are delighted that the committee has accepted our application.

"Every penny raised from the sale will be reinvested into improving learning opportunities and facilities for our students."