A POPULAR caravan site is set to be extended, after councillors gave plans the green light.

Members of Bury Council’s planning committee unanimously supported an application to install a new caravan and tent site at Burrs Country Park, in Woodhill Road.

The extension will include 20 caravan pitches as well as enough room for four tents. Also included in the project is a new railway platform and shelter for the East Lancashire Railway near to the site, with a pedestrian and disabled access ramp.

A footpath which currently runs through the planned site will also be diverted.

Cllr Denise Bigg said at Tuesday night’s planning meeting: “I was actually opposed to the caravan site when it originally came into planning. However, I feel they have done a good job and I feel it would enhance facilities there.”

Cllr Michael Hankey said: “I would echo that. When the original caravan site was built I was one of its biggest opponents and I fully admit I was wrong. I think it is an excellent proposal.”

Cllr Yvonne Wright added: “It puts Bury on the map. I fully support it.”

The five-star site, which was opened in 2006 by the Caravan Club, has 85 pitches for caravans, as well as space for tents. There are also a handful of permanent buildings, which provide bathroom units.

It has proved a very popular site, attracting thousands of families since it opened.