COUNCILLORS are set to approve plans for 52 new homes in Bacup despite six letters of objection and a 104-name petition.

The proposal is for 48 bungalows and other dwellings off Windermere Avenue and Pendle Avenue.

The development is bounded by Cowtoot Lane, Old Meadows Road and Thorn Primary School.

Objections cite the potential hazard from more traffic, the density of the development, the removal of trees and the effect on wildlife as reasons why the application should be turned down.

At the engineering and planning sub-committee today councillors are being recommended to approve the application.

A report from officers says: "The principle of development of this site for housing is already established, both by allocation in the Local Plan and by an existing consent which permits the erection of 32 dwellings on the currently undeveloped part of the site.

"The current application is therefore a revised layout rather than establishing a new principle.

"The most difficult matter to resolve is the balance to be struck between the existence of a permission, the desire of residents for reduced density and thereby more effective use of land released. The layout, landscaping, density and design of this scheme is more in keeping with today's standards. More cars are not likely to create a problem.