PLANS for a seven-year time extension at a Rossendale tip have been blocked by county planners.

Local people sent 109 letters to Lancashire County Council protesting about plans for Horncliffe Quarry off Bury Road, Rawtenstall.

The controversial tip now faces closure unless a fresh planning application is approved.

Objectors said the tip created noise, dust, litter and smells, and that destruction of ancient land drains caused flooding in gardens and roads.

They also complained about traffic hazards and the speed of lorries to and from the tip.

Rossendale Borough Council backed the protests, and expressed concern about the stability of the quarry slopes and the impact on residential amenity and the environment.

A report to councillors prepared by county planning officers said exploratory drilling showed stability would not be affected by further tipping.

It added that the applicant had also offered to install a surface water drain above the gardens of Horncliffe Close.

Officers recommended granting planning permission for five years of tipping followed by two years' restoration work, subject to 26 conditions. But councillors rejected the application.

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