DEVELOPERS of the former Sainsbury's site in Prestwich have been criticised for "ignoring" residents' views.

Revised plans for the Longfield Centre development were submitted to Bury Council this week by applicants Richardsons (with MCO Developments) and Countryside Properties. They were ordered to make amendments to the controversial scheme after protesters complained the eight-storey shopping and apartment complex was too high.

Bury planners asked them to look specifically at the impact on Our Lady of Grace Church and Fairfax Road. And, after six weeks, they have come back with a scheme that is even bigger than before.

The number of apartments has increased from 123 to 145 and, while the first-floor car park has been moved to basement level, the overall scheme will be ten storeys instead of the original eight.

Monsignor John Allen, of Our Lady of Grace Church, said: "The scheme is bigger now than it was before. The developers have ignored the clear instructions they were given."

MP Ivan Lewis, however, welcomed the changes. He said: "They respond positively to the genuine concerns expressed by residents. I am optimistic that we can proceed with a retail and housing development which will be a major boost to the regeneration of Prestwich."

Mr Allen said: "Worst of all, the overall height of the development has gone up to more than 100 feet. The block opposite the church has been reduced by more than 20 feet, but it is still one-and-a-half times the height of the church. These revised plans are most disappointing."

In a letter to Bury Council which accompanied the revised plans, Andy Frost, senior planner at HOW Commercial planning advisors said: "These amendments go to the heart of members' concerns by markedly lowering the height and overall massing of the elevation to Fairfax Road."

The plan will go to committee on Monday, June 23, at 3pm.