RESIDENTS have launched a rallying call to battle plans for 106 homes in Ribble Valley.

Persimmon Homes have submitted an application to build the properties on land to the east of Salesbury View, Wilpshire.

Locals in Wilpshire are determined to fight proposals as they say it is on one of their few remaining green spaces.

The objections are not just about the decimation of one of the best views in Lancashire, they highlight the steep access road which is dangerously icy in winter, the over-stretched local services, the destruction of farmland and natural habitats for wildlife and the already busy A666.

Kathryn Berzins, chair of neighbouring Ramsgreave Parish Council, is one of a number of local councillors who is deeply concerned about safety on local roads.

She said: “This proposed development poses a significant risk to our community - we already have traffic problems - congestion on Whalley New Road and speeding traffic on Ramsgreave Road.

"We’ve been campaigning about this for years. An extra 200 plus cars will make these problems worse. The safety of our residents should be prioritised over profits of developers.”

A local resident, who wished to remain anonymous, said: “I waited almost ten minutes to get across to the bus stop with a pram the other day.

"There is no pavement on this side. It’s madness to expect this road to cope with another 234 cars, which is what I believe Persimmon have planned for.

"No thought has been given to pedestrians or cyclists. Wheelchair users wouldn’t stand a chance. This is discrimination against everyone who is trying to reduce car usage.”

Residents whose properties border the proposed development are saddened at the prospect of a rich and diverse wildlife habitat being destroyed by the bulldozers. Jonathan Finch is one of those affected.

 He said: “Once green space is developed, there is no going back.

“Walkers cross this land and pause at the gate to admire the view, which will change forever, before heading to a well-loved area known locally as The Glen.

“We see squirrels in the trees, deer grazing amongst the sheep and the birdsong in early spring is a delight.

“What prospects do local families have to explore nature when their open spaces are snatched away?

“Will Ribble Valley Council explain to my new-born son the reason wildlife no longer visit the garden or why he can’t cross the road on his bike or which school will offer a place when the local primary is full?”

A spokesperson for Persimmon Homes Lancashire said: “This site has been identified as an appropriate location for residential development by Ribble Valley Borough Council as part of the Local Plan.

“Earlier this year we ran a consultation for residents and local stakeholders to have their say on our plans with all feedback considered prior to submission of our planning application.

“Full technical reports, including transport assessments and ecological reports have been undertaken to demonstrate the suitability of the site for residential development.

“The transport assessment demonstrates that the assessed junctions have sufficient capacity to accommodate the proposed development.

“As part of our commitment to developing healthy and sustainable communities, the scheme retains existing trees and hedgerows as well as providing additional new planting and open green space.

“We hope that our proposals will be approved to deliver 106 high quality sustainable new homes which will bring considerable economic investment into the area and help meet the identified local need for new housing.”

Residents can object by sending an email to planning@ribblevalley.gov.uk and give their name and address, the reference number 3/2022/0115 and the location: Land to east of Salesbury View, Wilpshire.