PLANS to build a new sewage treatment works at a Pendle abbatoir have been scuppered after councillors rejected proposals.

Members of Pendle Council's Colne committee refused planning permission for Woodhead Bros to build the new plant at its Junction Street base.

Originally the firm intended to build the plant in its car park by the corner of Junction Street and Regent Street.

The works would have help purify sewage from its meat processing plant before it was discharged into the public system.

However, Jane Brindle, representing Woodhead Bros, told committee members the company had amended the plans and wanted to build the works further back in the car park.

She said the new development was needed and it would include filters to limit odour emissions which the present site did not have.

However, councillors rejected the plans saying the building would be too large.

Councillor Alan Davies said: "I think it will stick out like a sore thumb. We will have three quite predominant buildings.

"In terms of its sizing it's unacceptable."

Woodhead Bros is now expected to submit another application.