RESIDENTS are calling on planners to block a development they say would ruin one of the last quiet corners of Westhoughton.

Homeowners are furious that builders have applied to build seven new homes on land next to Nook Cottage, Waters Nook Road, Westhoughton.

They say it will leave the small piece of land over-developed, block out light at nearby homes and bring extra traffic to the area.

Brian Worsley, who lives on Park Meadow, next to the proposed site for one of the detached homes, said: "They are just trying to squeeze as many houses onto a small space as they can.

"In my opinion, it should be classed as green belt land. It is one of the last pieces of open land left in Westhoughton and should be left that way."

Bolton Council's planning department has received more than 30 letters from outraged residents.

Around 10 people turned up to a Westhoughton Town Council meeting on Monday night where a decision on the application was deferred because councillors were waiting for new information.

But applicant Jim McGrath, of Red house Developments, said the scheme would improve the area.

"Far from making the area more dangerous by bringing extra traffic, we will be improving access to the site," he said.

"It will be safer for local residents and schoolchildren."

Mr Worsley added: "The view from my house would be unpleasant to say the least. It is completely out of character.

"There are objections from the whole area around the site. If there weren't so many houses it would be slightly more acceptable."