PROPOSALS for a housing development in Whalley has been refused by councillors in the Ribble Valley because of the number of houses currently being built in the area.

The application by Crosby Homes Ltd details the construction of 14 two and three storey homes at the Coppins in Queen Street.

It was vigorously opposed by residents and the council received 63 letters of objection and a 73-signature petition.

They protested at possible traffic problems, including safety and increased parking problems, environmental harm and the effect that it would have on their homes.

Residents' spokesman Mr J Kirkwood told the planning and development committee that the traffic flow along the cul-de-sac would be increased by about 50 per cent, reducing the safety of children and pedestrians.

Mr Kirkwood also said that the development would put additional pressure on the local services and the village infrastructure, which were already strained, and ruin an area of natural beauty because several hundred houses are already planned for the area.

Coun John Hill said that the scheme was ill-conceived and added: "It's a square peg in a round hole."

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