CONCERNED Heaton residents have challenged a developer's appeal against a planning application refusal to build a block of 18 flats in a conservation area.

Crosby Homes had planned to construct a five storey apartment block with two garages and parking on Markland Hill.

But the proposal was rejected because councillors on the planning committee believed the development would be out of character with the area.

Demolition of the existing building, Bloomfield, had been approved, but only if development of the land would preserve or enhance the Chorley New Road Conservation Area.

Planners insisted the complex of 18 flats, standing at 18 metres high and 25 metres wide, was too large for the area.

Councillors also believed it would have a detrimental effect on the Conservation Area, as trees would be lost and the scale and appearance of the building would be obtrusive and inappropriate in the area.

Bolton Metropolitan borough planning officer Jonathan Berry told a planning appeal yesterday that the building was more appropriate to a town centre location, adding that it would detract from the special architectural interest of the Conservation Area.

Roger Lancaster QC, on behalf of Crosby Homes, argued that planning officers had approved the size of the building in an amended application, and that trees removed would be replaced.

He said: "Planting will be of such a standard that there will be improvement to the Conservation Area."

Residents then presented information to the planning inspector which they claimed suggested that Crosby Homes had set out to mislead the council by submitting inaccurate plans of the site and existing building.

They also told the inspector that the development would overlook and impose upon existing houses, invading the privacy of residents.

The inquiry was adjourned until the end of May.