A DECISION on plans to build three-storey flats on a former sweet factory site at Church has been delayed after renewed protests from residents.

Councillors had authorised the granting of planning permission for 44 flats and associated car parking on land at Church Street if there were no further objections.

But renewed protests before the end of the public consultation period mean the application will go back to the next meeting of Hyndburn development services committee.

Around 40 residents on York Street and John Street have signed a letter objecting to the outline application by Salford Community Housing for a high density development of 44 rented flats on three storeys. The bulk of the site was formerly occupied by Stockleys Sweets and the rest is a council-owned site on the junction of Church Street and John Street.

The residents' main concerns are loss of light and privacy, and they have invited councillors to visit houses facing onto the site.

Residents' leader Kate Bury said: "Even though they would not be a full storey higher they are going to be bigger than the houses and will take an awful lot of light."

Protesters are also worried about loss of parking spaces and extra traffic.

"Church Street is busy enough already and it's going to get worse and worse," added Miss Bury, who lives in York Street.

The director of community services has expressed concern over the possible effect on council housing in the area as Hyndburn, like other authorities in East Lancashire, is experiencing letting problems with its own properties.

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