RESIDENTS concerned about traffic problems in a Rossendale town have objected to plans to create a new housing estate.

But their battle could be in vain after planning chiefs recommended the proposals be given the green light.

Waterfoot-based developers B and E Boys Ltd want to build 20 new homes made up of three-storey town houses in Pendle Avenue, adjacent to Thorn Primary School.

Planners at last month's meeting deferred making a decision to request amended plans for the access road and driveways.

The developers already have planning permission for 13 bungalows but now want to build three-bedroom town houses.

The site falls within the defined urban boundary in the Rossendale District Local Plan and is allocated for residential purposes.

Rossendale Council has received nine letters of objections raising issues regarding increased traffic along Windermere Road and Pendle Avenue.

A spokesman for the residents objecting to the plans said: "The development will be a blot on the landscape as three-storey houses will not fit in with surrounding properties and will overlook the recently-constructed houses.

"The area's infrastructure needs to be brought up to date before any more houses are built."

Brian Sheasby, head of planning at Rossendale Council, said: "The town houses and principal windows would be positioned such that they would not have a materially adverse impact on the amenities of neighbouring properties in relation to light, privacy and outlook.

"Representations have been received with regard to concerns about highway safety along Pendle Avenue and the access roads.

"Neither the county highways nor Rossendale Borough Council's highways have raised an objection to the use of the existing road access to the site nor the associated increase in traffic movements.

"A condition has been recommended that ensures that garages be available for the parking of vehicles at all times."

The plans are set to be discussed at Thursday night's development control meeting at the Astoria, Rawtenstall, from 6.30pm.