A ROW is raging over the creation of a "prison" in a mill, as a result of security improvements.

DHJ Weisters Ltd of Anchor Mill, Moss Fold Road, Darwen, has applied for permission to retain posts and razor wire on walls at the site, which is in a residential area close to the Birch Hall Nursing Home.

Letters of objection from householders in Moss Fold Road have been sent to Blackburn with Darwen Council about the issue.

One says the proposal will give the "impression of a prison", and another details fears that it will reduce the value of surrounding property. The plan was set down for discussion last night by councillors on the planning and highways committee.

Council officers have recommended the application be granted on the grounds that visual impact is minimal.

Mr James Weisters, the company's managing director, said: "I think there have been false rumours going around that we were going to put razor wire around the whole mill. That was never our plan.

"We have had several break-ins and vandal attacks in the past few years. We have put the wire up on three points and installed a sophisticated burglary alam to improve security.

"All the work has been done after consulting the police and planning officers."