THE Edge End area of Pendle is one step nearer becoming a conservation area after members of the Nelson Committee recommended the proposal to the executive.

Its designation would acknowledge the area's special architectural and historic interest as the council considers an application to develop Edge End Farm.

Members approved the conservation area proposal, which will now go to the executive on November 21, and asked for a meeting with residents at the earliest opportunity.

One local, Ian Wells, of Edge End Lane, told the meeting that the area, which includes Edge End Farm, Edge End House, Edge End Hall and associated land, was once part of a 14th century estate and the buildings were listed as important architectural buildings.

Councillor Judith Robinson said: "I was born and brought up nearby and it's a lovely district. I think a conservation area will be ideal."

An application to build 26 detached house and six three storey town houses on the site of Edge End Farm was also discussed. Members were told that the applicant, Rowland Homes, had already gone to appeal so they would need to make a decision.

They refused the application because of the impact on the conservation area and possible traffic congestion.

Resident Kathleen Hodgson said the number of houses proposed was too great. She warned: "This area is loved by walkers, children and residents and is still unspoilt and quite unique. We've got bats, barn owls and many species of animals.

"A former mayor of the borough, Councillor Tony Clarkson, who is no longer with us, once declared that this hamlet should be left untouched."

It was also agreed that the council would look into the fact that a wall which separated the footpath from the road in Edge End Lane had been removed, leaving pedestrians vulnerable to traffic.