PLANS to build 65 homes in Hyndburn have been given the go-ahead despite a council freeze on new houses.
Permission to build 77 houses on the site of the former Boythorpe's factory in Clayton-le-Moors was originally granted in 1996, but the developers went into liquidation after building just 12. Norwest Estates will now resurrect the scheme, off Lower Barnes Street, and build a mix of 65 two and three-storey terraced and detached homes.
Clayton-le-Moors Councillor Janet Storey voted against the scheme, claiming the site was inappropriate due to congestion, lack of public transport, fully subscribed schools and poor play provision. A resident also objected, saying the area was overpopulated and the development could harm wildlife at the nearby lodge.
But the applicants hit back, pointing out that under their plans the nearest house to the lodge is 50m further away than in the original proposal.
Norwest Estates have also worked with Hyndburn Council's tree officer to ensure the nearby woodland is not affected.
Chief planning and transportation officer Brendan Lyons said the development could go ahead, despite the on-going freeze on building new homes, because of its outstanding planning permission.
