CONTROVERSIAL plans to extend Crewe Vagrants Sports Ground onto nearby farmland have been approved by councillors.

Neighbours objected to proposals to convert a five-acre site into rugby pitches for Crewe and Nantwich RUFC, because of the risk of extra noise, swearing and an increase in traffic.

But members of the Planning Committee agreed to grant the club a trial period of two years to prove the scheme would not have a negative impact on the area.

The applicants said the success of the club's two senior sides and an increase in membership had forced the club to extend, so they could continue to cater for the junior and veterans teams.

Planning officer Andew Dobson said the decision as to whether to grant permanent permission would rest on the club's behaviour.

"If they operate in a sensible manner and control their members and spectators then there is no reason why it shouldn't go forward," he said.

"It's upto the applicants to prove that it should be permanent and if it doesn't then they have only themselves to blame."

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