CAMPAIGNERS are well on their way to saving an 18th century Horwich farmhouse from demolition.

Horwich Town Council has rejected plans to replace Pearl Brook Farm, Brownlow Road, with a block of 16 apartments, together with 19 parking spaces.

Planning officers received 10 objections to the plans, which they advised would mean a major change of appearance to the existing building and labelled a "very high density scheme".

The stone-built house, which dates back to 1785, is one of the oldest in the borough and members of local history group Horwich Heritage want it to be listed and say developers should come up with an alternative that would retain the farm.

Residents are also against the plans, which they believe are not in keeping with the area, and turned out in force to voice their concerns at a planning meeting.

Anne Wilkes lives opposite the farmhouse, she said: "I don't understand why they are saying the house is worthy of demolition. It has always been occupied and has been on the market for two years since the previous owner died.

"I agree that it is in need of serious repair work, but it is not about to collapse."

Another objector commented on the lack of parking planned, claiming it would make the area, which is already double parked, even worse. Two local residents, both employed as structural engineers, confirmed that to them the building does not look fit for demolition and that with some work could be perfectly habitable.

Cllr Barbara Ronson said: "The idea of putting 16 apartments in that space is absolutely ludicrous."

Chairman of Horwich Heritage Stuart Whittle said: "This building was built in 1795 by the Brownlow family, who at that time were one of the most important families in Horwich.

"The farm was a significant building at that time, as there was little development in Horwich in the 1700s. As such it was one of a number of important farm developments which enjoyed several acres of land in the area.

"As Horwich expanded the land became considerably less, but the building is of local significance due to its age and its links to Horwich's heritage in the Brownlow family.

"It is certainly something which should be saved."

Councillors voted to refuse planning permission. It will now go before Bolton Council's planning committee for a final decision.