NEIGHBOURS have joined forces with Ribble Valley MP Nigel Evans to fight plans for 15 homes on the site of a single house and its gardens in Whalley.

He has written to local planning committee chairman Chris Holtom objecting to the plan at The Coppins, near Queen Street.

The Tory MP took up the issue after residents complained and said it would turn a quiet cul-de-sac into a "death trap."

He has described the proposal, which will involve the demolition of the house, as "absurd."

He said: "I met with 60 residents of Queens Street, which is to become the main road into this development.

"This is totally unsuitable as it is a small narrow road which is normally packed with cars." Mr Evans claimed a quiet cul-de-sac would be transformed into a death trap for young and old and would destroy a natural wooded garden.

He said: "If local democracy means anything, I hope that the local authority can prove themselves to be the bastions of the local people living in Whalley.

"Whalley has already taken enough houses without residential gardens being turned into a small housing estate."

Residents in the area have formed an action committee to oppose the plan.

Spokesman Marjorie Smith said: "The residents of Queen Street are very angry and the committee will follow every avenue to make our opposition clear every step of the way.

"This really is one of the most ridiculous propositions I have ever come across."

The plan will be considered by Ribble Valley Council's planning committee at a future meeting.

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