A PLAN which would have provided 28 new homes has been opposed by Westhoughton town councillors.

Melrose Development applied for full planning permission to build three apartment buildings -- which would create 24 homes -- and two pairs of semi-detached houses on land off Tithe Barn Street, Westhoughton.

Councillors were told that the authority had received four objections to the plans, which included concerns over loss of wildlife and woodland, and doubts over access arrangements. However, Bolton Council officers reported that the proposals complied with planning policy.

Cllr David Wilkinson said he thought the development could lead to an extra 60 vehicles travelling on and off the site, which would aggravate existing traffic problems.

Cllr Jo Worthington strongly objected to the plans on the grounds that the development was not of the type Westhoughton most urgently needed. "These units would not provide suitable housing for the young people of Westhoughton, who would not be able to afford them. It's a development aimed at executives.

"Youngsters are struggling to get properties in this town because they are so expensive."

A final decision on the plan will be made by Bolton Council.