A MULTI-MILLION pound project to which would create a dentist's, a doctor's and a community centre on a Heysham estate is one step closer.

Despite more than 40 letters of objection from residents living near Mossgate Park, Lancaster City councillors gave the project by Mac Construction the nod.

It means that if the community project gets a yes vote in a public consultation in January 400 homes, a police station, a football pitch, sports hall and facilities for young people will get underway.

The outline application for the neighbourhood centre would also see the refurbishment of Douglas Park.

Last year the blueprint was blocked by the Government when it reviewed the plan because of a conflict with regional planning guidance.

Planning consent for the building company to continue building houses on the land expired, meaning money made from house sales destined to be pumped into community facilities was at risk.

But Malcolm Townsend, director of Mac Construction, says: "It is something we can be really pleased about and it's another step on the ladder for the project.

"To have the planning authority behind us is a big boost and hopefully it will stand us in good stead in the inquiry.

"We also hope the decision will be made as quickly as possible because we have grants hinging on it," he says.

People living nearby expressed concern to the planning committee on Monday about the noise, disturbance and light pollution, which would come from the site.

Some say there is no need for another football pitch or skatepark in the area, which might attract undesirables'.

But several letters were received from neighbours in support of the plan saying more amenities are needed to maintain the village atmosphere of Heysham.

Mr Townsend says he understands the concerns of the residents and says in the original plan the football pitch was located well away from houses and says he would expect that the architect from Lancashire County Council would take the concerns into consideration.

Lancashire County Council have already earmarked cash for a new state-of-the-art-library and Mr Townsend says a bid for a £1million Sports Lottery grant is already flown through the first two stages and says it looks hopeful.