PLANS to convert a pub into a children’s nursery have been rejected after parking and drop off areas were deemed unsafe.

The former Fusilier pub on busy Bolton Road West, Ramsbottom was earmarked by Ladybird Nursery as a new site for their business.

They currently operate at two other sites in the town but hoped to transfer operations from Buchanan Street and Carr Street to the former pub building.

The nursery looks after children up to four years of age and planning documents said they currently have 12 staff in total across the two sites.

The plans included three parking spaces next to the building.

Bury highways objected to the plans saying ‘access to the site is sub-standard in terms of width’ and also aired concerns about safety.

An official said: “The proposal would result in an intensification of use of a site with inadequate parking and turning facilities, which is likely to lead to conflicts between vehicles entering and reversing out of the access and traffic on Bolton Road West in close proximity to the existing bus stop and Regent Street junction and would therefore be detrimental to road safety and maintaining the free flow of traffic on the principal road.

“The car parking provision and safe drop off facilities for children is inadequate and is likely to lead to vehicles parking and carrying out manoeuvres on Bolton Road West.”

They added that the plans would affect pedestrian safety and lead to conflicts between pedestrians and vehicles at the access road.

An letter objecting to the plans signed by 18 residents was received by the council.

Another objector said: “The proposed change of use will create pressure on the highway network for parking and also increase congestion along Bolton Road West.

“Hazelhurst school nearby already causes problems along Geoffrey Street with parents parking in residential side streets and private rear access roads.

“Terraced houses do not have dedicated parking and the nursery will create additional problems for parking as well increase traffic, noise and disturbance.

“Bolton Road West is a very congested route and crossing for pedestrians very difficult and unsafe which will be further worsened by the change of use.”

Ladybird Nursery has an Ofsted rating of good and they are also signed up to Bury Council’s Golden Apple award scheme and are accredited with the Gold Award.

They planned to divide the ground floor space into separate rooms for the age groups, with a two year old space, a baby room and office space,

The first floor would have been two open plan areas for two to four-year-olds.