PLANS for a workingmen's club to be reduced in size are likely to be approved by councillors next week.

Haughton Workingmen's Club, on Haughton Green, Darlington, is hoping to reduce its size to help cope with a decline in membership.

Proposals have been submitted to the borough council, seeking permission for part of the site to be demolished. Other buildings would be refurbished and a concert hall provided.

Council planners have received three letters objecting to the scheme, with complainants saying the concert hall would lead to increased noise. They also fear traffic congestion because of a 40-space parking area that forms part of the plans.

But council officers are recommending that the scheme be approved on Wednesday. The authority's highways engineer is satisfied with the parking provision and officers feel there would be little impact on the area.