PROTESTS have failed to derail plans for new flats in one of Rossendale’s most historic locations.

Neighbours complained that proposals to convert a property in The Square, Newchurch, did not take account of a number of grade II listed buildings.

Not only are a series of attached cottages listed in Old Street but so are nearby properties on Church Lane, the Boar’s Head parade and St Nicholas’s Church.

Coun Colin Crawforth led objections to the scheme for a two-bedroom flat, one-bedroom flat and studio apartment.

Critics claimed no heritage statement had been lodged, advising what impact it would have on the listed properties.

Neighbours also said there was ‘inadequate provision’ for off-street parking.

The opponents also said the flats would not be large enough to provide suitable living accommodation.

Councillors sitting on the borough’s development control committee noted that the site was in a general state of disrepair and unanimously supported the proposals.