ROSSENDALE firm James Killelea and Co Ltd has won approval for its expansion plans.

The steel fabrication and erection company is to build an extension of its premises in Crawshawbooth on the site of a former plant hire firm.

Approval was granted on the proviso that the firm keep within noise limits on the whole of its site.

Managing Director, Bob Killelea said: "We are absolutely delighted to have won approval for the extension - we feel it's a victory for common sense.

"This result means we will be able to stay here in Rossendale, which has been our home for almost 40 years, and we will be able to continue to invest and grow in our people and plant.

"Thankfully the conditions imposed by the committee won't adversely affect our daily operations, as we already work well within the limits prescribed by the committee, though why they felt the need to impose them in the first place is totally beyond me."

"The only good to come from this whole affair has been the wonderful support we were given by local residents, our MP Janet Anderson and Hazel Harding, the leader of Lancashire County Council.

"The new extension will mean we will be able to continue to invest in the business and compete with rivals."

Ahead of the meeting, the committee had been sent a signed a petition in favour of the firm from a group of local residents, who live opposite the site.