A new estate of 89 properties is set to be built on grassland close to the M65.

Seddon Homes have been given provisional planning permission for the development off Mount St James in Knuzden, close to the boundary between Blackburn and Hyndburn.

The proposal is for a mix of two, three and four bed detached, semi-detached and mews properties of which 20 per cent will be allocated as affordable houses.

The 8.35 acre site is 1.1 miles from Junction 6 of the M65.

One Wednesday Hyndburn Council planning committee approved the scheme subject to 44 conditions and a financial contribution of between £121,000 and £300,000 from the Warrington-based developer being agreed with borough officials.

The scheme includes 52 three bed homes, 21 with four bedrooms and 16 two-bedroom 'mews' properties.

The permission was granted despite 19 objections from nearby residents including on grounds of increased traffic, road safety, parking, loss of agricultural land, and the impact on neighbours and wildlife.

A planning officer's report to councillors said: "The application proposes the erection of 89 new dwellings comprising a mix of two, three and four bed detached, semi-detached and mews properties, of which 20 per cent would be provided as affordable housing.

"The proposed dwellings would be two storeys in height and would be constructed using a mix of materials including artificial stone, render and brick.

"A landscaping scheme is proposed to include new trees and hedgerow planting and the traditional boundary wall along the frontage of the site is to be retained and repaired.

"Within the site would be provided area of informal open space.

"A new access would be created into the site from Mount St James to the south of St Oswald’s C of E Primary School and opposite nos. 82 and 84 Stanhill Road.

"The development would provide an appropriate mix of housing that would make an important contribution towards the supply of housing in the borough.

"In terms of the design and appearance of the proposed dwellings, they would be in keeping with the surrounding area.

"The proposed layout incorporates areas of amenity open space and the development would be appropriately landscaped.

"A number of highway improvements are proposed along Mount St James and financial contributions would be secured to improve the local footpath network.

"Financial contributions would also contribute towards the improvement of formal sports, outdoor sport and equipped play space in the area and school places."