LAST orders will not be called on a nineteenth century pub building in Baldingstone after neighbours were stirred into action.

Plans to demolish The Masons Arms in Walmersley Old Road to make way for a new block of flats have been refused.

The proposals would have seen eight apartments, along with a car park across the road, built at the heart of the historic hamlet.

Householders raised a petition with 92 signatures, objecting to the development on the grounds of appearance and height.

Residents complained they would lose their local pub and restaurant and suggested that the building be listed.

Additional complaints included the use of imitation stone, inadequate parking and loss of privacy for neighbours.

The development was recommended for approval on condition that correct materials were used.

Bury Council's planning control committee was asked to decide on the plans at its meeting on Tuesday (13 April).

Councillor Mike Connolly said: "We are talking about things being in character, but when things are done properly using the correct stone and slate, then I see nothing wrong with it."

However, Coun Bob Bibby described the plans as "completely and utterly out of keeping".

And Coun Dorothy Gunther drew comparisons with former plans to develop the Waterside Inn in Summerseat into flats.

She said: "This is a lovely traditional environment and I believe that to destroy the Masons Arms and build flats would be totally uncharacteristic.

"We are being asked to weld communities together. This, I believe would drive a community apart."

A dozen villagers present at the meeting cheered as a decision to refuse the plans on the grounds of inappropriate design and scale was announced.