A controversial scheme to build on a 'granny' annexe to a proposed village barn conversion has been approved by councillors despite it being condemned as 'too large and overbearing'.

The project was submitted by a distant cousin of Blackburn with Darwen Council planning manager Gavin Prescott.

Graham Prescott has been given planning permission for the double-storey side extension and enlarge the garden at the property at Ryal Fold Barn in Tockholes, despite six objections from three nearby households.

The approval was granted by Blackburn with Darwen Council planning committee on Thursday night despite a plea to reject it on behalf of the objectors.

Speaking on behalf of nearby residents, Jody Harrison told councillors at the meeting: "This extension is horribly out of context of the site.

"It is too large. It is overbearing. It doesn't fit the area. It is a poor design."

She added the the applicant had "already cut down 200 trees" and objected to the proposed garden extension.

Planning office Nick Blackledge told the meeting none of the felled trees were protected but the Forestry Commission had issued a 'restocking order' for the landowner to plat 40 new ones.

The conversion of the barn into a three-bedroomed home was approved in September 2021.

The approval will allow Graham Prescott wants to add a two-storey side extension lounge, kitchen and toilet room on the ground floor with one bedroom and shower room on the first floor off the proposed barn conversion for use by a relative.

It will be joined to the converted barn by a glazed linking passageway.

Borough growth boss Cllr Quesir Mahmood supported the scheme, saying it would 'tidy up a messy site'.

Committee chair Cllr Dave Smith said he thought to plan 'a positive move'.

Planning permission was granted subject to 10 conditions including one restricting it use to a family member of the applicant, thus preventing it becoming a separate house in the future or holiday let.

The report to the committee by planning officer Christian Barton said: "Whilst the proposed annex extension will be a noticeable addition within the setting of the listed buildings, its design and materials would be sympathetic to both the existing barn and the nearby listed buildings."