BURNLEY MP Peter Pike is backing residents in their call for a change in planning laws.

Residents of Clowbridge and Dunnockshaw called for the law surrounding the planning classifications to be changed because there was a plan to use a former home for the elderly, Moorland View at Dunnockshaw, as a children's home.

Current legislation means the applicant did not need to change the use because both premises are under the same classification.

Lancashire County Council registered the home in August after considering the legal factors and requirements.

But residents still petitioned Burnley Council and councillors agreed to support the call for a change in the law.

Mr Pike said: "Hundreds of people wrote to me and signed a petition expressing their objections to the siting of the home.

"However, despite what I also believe regarding the suitability of the site, Lancashire County Council had no grounds on which to refuse the home's registration.

"Burnley Council has asked for a change in planning laws, a proposal which I support, but this will not have any effect on this particular case.

"Lancashire County Council are aware of local residents but it is hoped that efforts will be made on both sides for the home to settle into the community."

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