A long battle in Westport over a new facility for a YMCA has reached a climax Friday.

Planning and Zoning officials have approved the Westport/Weston Y?s plan to build a new facility at Camp Mahackeno. YMCA officials started looking for a new home 13 years ago. Two and a half years ago, they started the approval process to build the new facility at the camp.

The camp is 34 acres and is located near the Saugatuck River and Merritt Parkway.

Many residents fought the proposal saying the Y doesn?t belong in a residential neighborhood. Some residents wanted to keep the facility downtown.

The Y?s vice president of operations says this was the longest, most scrutinized application in town history. YMCA officials expect an appeal, but say they?re confident the decision will stand.

Westport/WestonYMCA presents plans for new facility