AN extension will be added to William Beamont High School despite claims from residents that the current community use of the school causes traffic problems and vandalism.

The Long Lane school will now have extra class rooms and fitness rooms built after members of the development control committee backed blueprints.

But concern was expressed from resident Brian Carty that the extension could worsen problems already in place with the school and neighbouring football centre Vida.

He said: "We cannot believe a further application has been made with so many complaints about the present facilities. Vandalism is a real problem and it is a living nightmare for residents, especially the elderly.

"And with the traffic problem it is only a matter of time before a serious accident happens down there."

And while members sympathised with the problems, they agreed by a majority of seven votes to approve the plans as there was no planning reason to block the plan.