TOWN councillors in Marlborough have taken the side of neighbours objecting to a new sports pavilion.

Marlborough College is seeking planning consent for a two-storey sports pavilion on its playing fields in Hyde Lane.

Residents whose homes overlook the site have objected to the proposed location in the middle of the playing fields and because of its predominance in an area of outstanding natural beauty.

At a meeting of the town council's planning committee on Monday, chairman Graham Francis said: "I know you cannot protect a view but this is not just a view they (neighbouring residents) are objecting to losing but the whole landscape in an area of outstanding natural beauty."

Coun Maurice Cooper criticised the visual impact the proposed building would have in what he described as a very sensitive setting.

"It could be done very much more sympathetically," he said.

"We should protect that area of the college playing fields because it is so very important in the landscape."

Coun Francis said: "I am very surprised at the college trying to push this through and they must be told in no uncertain terms that it is unacceptable."

The committee voted 8-0 to oppose the plans with three councillors abstaining from voting.

The final decision on the plan rests with Kennet District Council.