A DEPUTY mayor has declared war on her own council after being told she cannot have a conservatory on the back of her house.

Coun Dorothy Walsh has reported Black-burn with Darwen Council to the Planning Inspectorate after her retrospective application was rejected.

Councillors, includ-ing several from her own Labour Party, threw out the plan after being told it contravened regula-tions. Builders had already begun work on her Hereford Road, Whitebirk, home when planners ordered it stopped, as she did not have permission.

At the time, she claimed that she did not think she needed permission, despite having attended planning committee meetings. Such issues only go to committee when there are objections or when councillors want to build.

Councillors ruled against her after being told the conservatory would be a second extension to her home and would set a precedent for other homes in the area.

Today, Adam Scott, director of regen-eration and housing, said: "We have been notified of an appeal lodged with the planning inspector in regards to this matter.

"It would be inappropriate to comment further at this stage."

Planning appeals can take several months, raising the possibility of Coun Walsh being at loggerheads with officers when she becomes mayor in May.

She declined to comment today. But in the past has said she felt officers were getting their own back on her for when she had been tough on them.

In August, she said: "I don't stand for any nonsense, and some people don't like that.

"I think the whole thing is unfair. I'm not asking for favouritism. As a taxpayer like everyone else I think I am entitled to the same services as everyone else, and it shouldn't have to go to committee just because I am a councillor."

Coun leader Kate Hollern said: "She has the right to appeal, and is using it."