PROTESTS over the go-ahead for a Lowton mall are mounting.

This week nearby resident Jonathan Mellor joined the objections, claiming it would sound the death knell for local businesses.

The plan for a new large Co-op store, vet's surgery, shop and community centre in Church Lane opposite St Luke's Church was given the go-ahead by Wigan Council planners recently despite a 1,700 signature petition and 108 letters of objection. Mr Mellor, of Lichfield Avenue,said: "I feel I must take an active part in the protests about this white elephant mall.

"There is no need for the mall. We already have in the Lowton area three convenience stores, three newsagents, four fast food outlets, two Post Offices, pharmacists, opticians, a health clinic, a DIY, video shop, butcher, two estate agents, a sunbed shop, three schools, a private sports centre, five pubs and two hotels.

"If they think we need another shop they must be crazy. This shop is going to be the death of local shopkeepers, and possibly put some money into the Wigan Council account.

"I have seen the problems that a shop like this will bring. I've seen the youths on the corner of the late shop in Culcheth, fighting and drinking.

'I've been in the area of Birchwood were the late shops are the main area for gangs to meet and cause trouble with residents not being able to venture out at night, the cries for CCTV and the increased demands on police."

He asks why the green patch of land, now used for dog walking, can't be used as a play, football, roller blade area instead of youngsters using the school fields and graveyard sites. He said: "We don't want it, 1,700 signatures have told the council this."

Deputy council leader Tom Sherratt said there had been play swings on the site but they were vandalised, and eight years ago residents objected to plans to turn the area into a proper park. Objectors have vowed to fight the council's decision.