PLANNING chiefs have rejected proposals to build a detached house and garage at Clayton-le-Dale, due to the 'detrimental' impact the development would have on nearby residents and amenities.

Members of the Ribble Valley Borough Council planning committee decided to go against recommendations to approve the application from Mr and Mrs Djamilc to build the four-bedroomed house and double garage at land adjacent to 57 Ribchester Road.

A similar application was refused last year, but the latest bid includes amendments to the external design and appearance.

In her report to the committee, planning officer Alison Roland, said: "This part of Ribchester Road is characterised by relatively large, detached properties and, in these circumstances, I do not consider that the proposal will appear at all cramped nor constitute over-development of the plot.

"The applicant has reduced the size of the dwelling bearing in mind the previous refusal.

"I do not consider the proposal will give rise to such a significant loss of light or outlook from the kitchen window of 59 Ribchester Road as to warrant resisting the application."

But the owner of No. 59, Mrs Frankland, asked the committee to consider a site inspection before making a decision on the application. She said: "There is no shortage of properties of this size in the area and there are several nearby that have been empty for some time, so a development like this is not necessary.

"From my home I have a beautiful view of the countryside, which will be blocked if the development is allowed to go ahead."

Coun Chris Holtom (Wilpshire) said: "I feel we will do lasting damage to the street scene if we approve this. The parish council feel very strongly about this issue."

The committee rejected the application on the grounds of the detrimental effect it would have on the street scene and to the impact it would have on nearby residents and amenities.