TEN householders are to receive £38,000 compensation between them for loss of value to their homes after a council planning blunder robbed them of a view.

The residents of Avondale Road, Darwen, said their homes were reduced in value because of the planning error, which saw Bottomcroft Mill increased by 10 feet in height.

The mill, occupied by Weltonhurst Ltd, was re-built following a roof collapse last year.

Planning officers failed to notice the height of the new building had increased by 10 feet and recommended the new plans be approved.

Councillors gave their seal of approval to the application and the new construction went ahead.

Now the householders are to be compensated after they complained. Blackburn Council had to seek permission before it could make the ex-gratia payment from the Department of Environment, which was given this week.

Andy Kay, chair of Blackburn's development services committee, said: "I appreciate that the delay has been frustrating for residents affected, but I am delighted that we are now in a position to settle the matter."

Sunnyhurst Ward councillors David Smith and Sue Reid, said: "The intention to recompense the residents was established in late 1995, but the matter has taken some time to resolve because of the need to comply with legal and good public accounting procedures."

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