PLANS to replace the ageing parish hall in Allerford with a modern building more than twice its size look set to be given the go-ahead next week.

The ambitious proposals for Hare Park include changing rooms to replace the existing timber cricket pavilion and a hard-surface multi-use games area.

The L-shaped hall has been designed with the intention of being sustainable, long-lived and virtually maintenance-free and will serve the communities in and around Allerford and Selworthy.

Members of Exmoor National Park Authority's planning committee are being recommended to approve the plans when they meet on Tuesday.

A report to the committee states: "It is considered that the efforts of the local community to provide a suitable replacement hall building on this site can be supported.

"The design of the building is considered to blend in with the area and the conditions imposed address the concerns raised over the possible flood risk and amenity impact and the application is therefore recommended for approval."

Members will be told the existing hall has limited use as it struggles to meet health and safety and fire regulations.

The existing kitchen is branded as "inadequate", as are the toilet, heating and disabled facilities.

The report adds: "The existing wooden hall and cricket pavilion are considered totally inadequate for modern needs and it is not considered viable to spend money on maintaining or improving either."

The new building would cover 390 square metres, compared to the 160 square metres of floorspace provided by the existing structure and boast a circular meeting room as well as the main hall.

The committee will be told the new hall would have better sound insulation than its predecessor meaning noise pollution would be reduced.

Two letters of objection had been sent opposing the plans on the grounds noise generated by functions would be "unbearable".

The letter-writers also feared construction of the hall would "spoil the view", while initial plans to floodlight the games area would lead to light pollution.

Members will be told the hall committee had since withdrawn the floodlighting plans after concerns were also raised by park officers.

The games area would be built in the corner of a neighbouring agricultural field behind a block of garages, while the hall itself would back onto an existing children's play area.

The report to the committee concludes: "The building is designed to be one that is environmentally sustainable and low maintenance.

"It is considered to be an innovative, modern design with elements that reflect an historic style."