NOT everybody is celebrating over Oakamoor Estate's decision to ditch plans for a shopping complex at Walton-le-Dale, in Preston.

The Midlands-based firm wanted to build a DIY shopping centre on an 18,000 square metre plot next to the Capitol Centre before plans were scrapped.

Last week The Citizen revealed how some residents and councillors were jumping for joy at the news amid fears it would have increased traffic flow through the village.

And some claimed the plan was forcing them out of their homes as Oakamoor tried to buy up 57 properties on Edward Street, Victoria Road, and Grove Road to make way for the development.

But, others, who secured an inflated price for their properties are devastated and say the decision has ruined their lives.

Mary Pearson, 60, said she has gone from 'ecstatic' to 'devastated' following the withdrawal of the offer.

She was planning to retire when Oakamoor purchased her business, Walton Bride Guest House, in Victoria Road.

Now she hopes another developer will submit similar plans to buy up the houses.

"I was very happy to move," she said, "All the shops have gone over the years and the area has deteriorated. When they opened the new road the volume of traffic increased, which has been shaking the foundations.

"We were glad, ecstatic to move. Now I am devastated.

"The second plans were set to be submitted on October 30 and I thought it would be nice to go through in time for Christmas.

"I will have to keep working now."

Another resident, Giuseppe Mascioli, 62, has lived on Edward Street for more than 30 years, and said the decision had deprived him of his only chance to move 'up market'.

"We've lived here for 31 years and I am happy to live here for another 30, God willing," he said.

"But I can't get a mortgage at my age and I could have provided something better for my children through the deal."

Oakamoor refused to comment.