Councillors' rejection of proposals to convert a detached suburban family house into a home to assess the parenting skills of troubled single mothers has been upheld on appeal.

Blackburn with Darwen Council's planning committee in January refused approval for to use the house in Moorcroft, Lower Darwen, for up to four families at a time for 12 weeks to perform ‘Residential Parenting Assessments’.

More than 20 nearby residents attended the meeting to demonstrate their opposition to the scheme.

Applicant Gryffin House Limited appealed the decision to the government's planning inspectorate.

But now it has dismissed its appeal.

The decision by planning inspector Ann Veevers has been welcomed by planning committee chair Cllr Dave Smith, Tory development spokesman Cllr Paul Marrow and council Conservative group leader Cllr John Slater who led the opposition to the scheme.

A total of 49 nearby residents had objected on the grounds of transport impacts, noise nuisance, anti-social behaviour, change in the character arising from a commercial use and insufficient outdoor space.

Blackburn with Darwen Council children's services department had also to the committee meeting there was no demand for the proposal in the borough adding that 'the local authority area cannot support the likely impacts arising on public service provision'.

Planning inspector Ann Veevers said after assessing the issues: "The proposed development would provide a valuable service in the community by providing temporary assessment accommodation for vulnerable families in an accessible urban location.

"There would be benefits to the local economy through employment opportunities for local people.

"I find however that these benefits are outweighed by the adverse impacts that would arise from granting planning permission, by reason of a lack of a need for the service and unacceptable harm being caused to the character of the area and to the living conditions of neighbouring occupiers.

"The appeal should therefore be dismissed."

Blackburn South and Lower Darwen ward's Cllr Slater told the meeting in January: "This is a small cul de sac. This proposal is totally inappropriate and totally not fit for purpose."

Planning consultant Brian Sumner, appearing for the applicant told the meeting: "There is no sustainable and substantive reason for rejection."

Cllr Slater said: "I am absolutely delighted.

"This is a resounding victory for the residents of Lower Darwen and their councillors."

Committee chairman Cllr Smith said: "This is really good news. The council has an excellent record of winning planning appeals."

Cllr Marrow said: "This is a resounding victory for common sense."