A final decision still has to be taken on whether to close a public footpath which passes through the grounds of a Plymouth school.

Staff at Ridgeway school wanted Geasons Lane closed, claiming it's a magnet for anti social behaviour.

Some also say there is a fire hazard there, as pupils would not be able to get through the fencing quickly in the event of a fire but others had argued it's a public right of way.

At yesterday's planning committee the city council decided the issues surrounding the decision were too complex and it has been referred to the Secretary of State.

The Secretary of State will also be asked to give his views on plans to alter a junction on a proposed link road in Plympton.

Wolf Minerals want to give priority to traffic using Hemerdon mine, which is soon to be reopened.

Locals have said the traffic impact would be too great, but the changes have been approved unless the Secretary of State calls them in.