RESIDENTS say they will resume their fight against developers who have resubmitted plans to build modern apartments in their back gardens.

Two months ago homeowners in Morris Green celebrated after developer Peel Holdings withdrew proposals to build 10 flats behind their houses in St Helens Road.

But the Manchester-based property company has spoilt the party by amending the plans and sending them back to Bolton Council.

They outline a bid to demolish the existing buildings and make way for eight apartments, two less than the previous application, with car parking and landscaping.

The site consists of two apartment blocks with spaces for vehicles.

But residents are furious because the plans mean they are set to lose their back gardens which are leased out to them by Peel Holdings.

And they fear that more cars will lead to increased traffic on St Helens Road which could result in a serious accident. Bert Millington said: "This part of the road is situated on a dangerous bend and all the residents' front walls have been demolished at some stage by speeding drivers.

"I once had a car nearly crash through my front window. It's the nature of the road."

Another resident is worried that side streets like Reginald Street and Back St Helens Road will be turned into a rat-run by motorists and pose a threat to playing children.

She said: "There isn't enough space between the back of our houses and these apartments. It will be far too cramped."

Mr Millington has grown vegetables in his garden for over 20 years, and said: "The government is always encouraging us to get out more and use our open spaces.

"How can we do that when a developer is trying to rob us of our back garden?"

A spokesman for Peel Holdings said: "Peel have taken into consideration the views of residents. As a result we have resubmitted a scheme that has less built development and more landscaping."