AN UNHOLY row has erupted after a church submitted plans for a two storey extension which local residents say will leave them shrouded in darkness.

Homeowners on Weldbank Lane say the extension to the Chapel house Christian Fellowship, Moor Road, at the back of their houses would completely block out light from their gardens and create a 'claustrophobic' and 'confined' atmosphere.

The plans were refused last year because, according to Chorley Borough Council's planning committee, the extension would result in a 'cramped form of development out of character with the surrounding area' and would cause an 'over bearing loss of light' and 'loss of outlook.'

But the chapel has now submitted changed plans which allow a 2.5 metre gap between the rear of the building and surrounding properties.

Now residents have started a petition to stop the development going ahead. Alice Gaskell has lived on Weldbank Lane for 58 years and said the extension will cause misery for her and her neighbours. "It will take what little light I have left in my yard," she said.

"The building is already imposing and with an extension people will be able to see right into my house."

More than 100 people have signed a petition against the development and a group of residents met with Chorley MP Lindsay Hoyle to voice their concerns.

Lisa Garratt who also lives on Weldbank Lane said: "These people are claiming to be Christians but it's not very Christian to consider blocking out all our light.

"A bigger building means more people and where are these extra people going to park their cars? There's not enough parking spaces for the residents never mind people using the church."

The new building would be used for a Sunday school and would see the demolition of an existing one storey lean-to. Statutory disabled access would also be created.

Pastor Ian Moulton said the extension would enhance the area. "The current building is actually a bit of an eyesore and it will be a lot nicer for people to look at," he said.

"To be honest if the plans are not approved then we will not really be able to provide access for the disabled.

"I can appreciate the residents' concerns but at the same time I would hope they can appreciate ours."

Alan Croston, Chorley Borough Council's Head of Planning said: "We will have to carefully assess the revised plans.

"If there are large numbers of local objections then it will go before the council's Development Control Committee."