RESIDENTS concerned about keeping an area of land for use by the community took their plight to councillors at Rossendale Borough Council's planning meeting.

Lancashire County Council is planning to demolish Whinberry View, a former elderly people's home in Bacup Road, Rawtenstall, and build a residential development for private use with off-street parking.

Michelle Loveday, speaking for the residents in the area said a petition of objection had been sent to the council.

She added: "This area of land is used as recreation area by the children and adults in the community. This piece of land has been used for recreational purposes for the last 17 years.

"Residents are willing to form a residents' group to turn it into recreational ground. We think the council should help save open spaces which can be be used for the community and the applicant."

Planners recommended the application for approval and said the density of the development should be more than 39 houses per hectare.

A report to the development control committee stated: "Given the proximity of the roundabout on Bocholt Way and the central reservation on Bacup Road, it requires access to the site via Co-operation Street. This would need to be widened by three metres to accommodate this access and the existing parking facility for the houses on Co-operation Street.

"The applicant has agreed to enter into a 106 agreement with the council. It is considered there is sufficient open space in the vicinity of the site, albeit in a poor condition. The applicant will pay a commuted sum towards the improvements to the recreational area."

Councillor Alan Neal said: "We are all aware of the problems with Bacup Road at any time of the day or evening. There are problems in this location and I am sympathetic to these issues which is why I want to see this application deferred for more information."

The decision was deferred for officers to carry out consultations with local residents.