Battle with the 'big boys' over

A public inquiry finished yesterday into a project to build a hotel, pub, offices, a petrol filling station, a sport/health centre and tennis courts on land near Fishmoor reservoir, off Haslingden Road. It could be several weeks or even months before the result of the inquiry is revealed.

Developers Arrowcroft Northwest and Blackburn with Darwen Council both spoke in favour of the scheme, saying more than 1,000 jobs will be created at the site, which they say is ideal for development because it is so close to the M65. Residents in the area brought to a close their 12-month campaign to stop the project which they say will ruin the environment in the area and generate massive amounts of traffic, as well as taking away the character of Guide.

Pat Kennedy, spoke for Guide villagers at the inquiry which was held at Queen's Park High School.

She was up against professional planners from the council and a QC representing Arrowcroft, who also had traffic, planning and environmental experts back their case.

Mrs Kennedy said: "We have taken on the big boys and come out at the other side with a chance that we could stop this.

"I wouldn't like to say how much of a chance we have, but the fact that we are still here 12 months on and won the chance to have this inquiry means we must stand some chance.

"It is difficult to get people involved in a campaign like this, but lots of people in Guide attended the inquiry, even though it was held in the middle of Blackburn Holidays.

"But I would like to say thank-you to all of the people who got involved, including those who spoke at the inquiry."

A night sitting was held so that residents who work during the day could attend and have their say. Government Inspector Norah Bell, who held the inquiry, will now spend the next few weeks considering the evidence.

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