'Ludicrous' plan for 10 flats rejected

JOHN HUDSON

PLANS to build 10 flats in Shaw were rejected by planning officials.

Lancashire Mortgage Corporation had applied to convert an existing warehouse to eight apartments and for a two-storey building to accommodate two apartments, with access through garages to Crossley Street.

Two objections were received on the basis that the development would be constructed on land not owned by the applicant, it would affect privately owned garages on private land, as well as the new flats overlooking nearby properties.

Stupid

It was, however recommended for approval by planning officers.

A previous application for eight flats on the site was refused permission last December.

Nearby resident Peter Cannon, objecting to the plans, said: "It's just stupid. Only two people were notified."

However, he was reminded that by law this was not even a necessity.

Councillor Rod Blyth said: "Nothing has changed on this application since last time. It was refused last time.

"They're privately owned garages. It's going to be something that could cause conflict.

"People are going to park in front of those garages. We shouldn't plan for conflict.

"The police refused it last time, they said it wouldn't be safe. It's a ludicrous plan."

Councillor John Hudson, also objecting to the plans, said: "You would have to be desperate to buy a house there.

"Quite frankly you're sharing a piece of land with a load of garages.

"I worked quite nearby for 25 years and I can tell you it's not a place anybody would think of unless they were desperate. It's the most deprived area I have seen."

Councillor Steve Bashforth said: "It's not deprived, it's vibrant and very well-loved. I'm just speaking up for the people of Shaw.

"Having said that, If I had a choice in buying a house, this would be the last place I would choose."

The application was refused, against planning officers' recommendations, by eight councillors against six.