PROTESTERS got it wrong when they claimed a council gave high-speed approval to plans for a gas-bottling plant near their homes, said Burnley MP Peter Pike.

He promised to investigate after residents in the Lydgate estate area handed him a 400-name petition opposing a scheme by local firm Acewell Units to open a LPG bottling and distribution centre on the Heasandford Industrial estate.

They said the plan received the go-ahead from councillors without proper public notification and claimed the proposal was rushed through by the authority.

But, after making inquiries, Mr Pike said Burnley Council has rebutted the accusations over how they dealt with the matter.

He added: "Quite clearly it was dealt with properly. I see no powers to revoke this but obviously I will consider any points put to me by protesters."

The MP has agreed to see a small group of residents at his weekly advice bureau to explain the position.

He says he will also write to all petition signatories next week.

Residents also said they were furious with their local parish council for failing to oppose the gas plant plan.

They claim the centre will create noise nuisance and a possible health hazard in the community.

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