PLANS for the new £16.1million Accrington Academy have been approved.

However, Hyndburn Borough Council’s Planning Committee added a condition some energy used by the school must be produced on site, even after hearing that the building’s design would automatically save 10-15 per cent more than usually recommended.

This could mean a wind turbine, solar panels or other renewable energy could be incorporated onto the 1,150 pupil academy, but it is thought that these plans are yet to be finalised.