PLANS to convert a unit at a Bee Mill Industrial Estate, Ribchester, into a sales room have been given the thumbs-down by councillors.

The scheme was rejected by members of Ribble Valley Council's planning and development committee, despite a recommendation of approval by planning officers.

The meeting heard the owners of Bee Mill wanted to hold weekly sales of general items in the unit from 5-9pm.

Ribchester councillor Brian Collis told the meeting: "Traffic at this site is very busy and a rat run for cars travelling to Preston. This is a glorified car boot sale and I propose refusal on the grounds of road safety."

Ribchester Parish Council claimed the proposed sales would cause disruption and noise to local residents, and attract a great number of vehicles to a site with limited access and restricted parking.

Brian Collis's proposal that the scheme be refused on the grounds of road safety was unanimously supported by councillors.