ONE of Bolton's most scenic roads could end up as a housing estate if more developments are allowed, a councillor has claimed.

Cllr Margaret Clare said building work on Chorley New Road was getting out of hand and all the new projects had started to blend into one -- creating a housing estate feel to what was once a distinguished area of Bolton.

Her comments were supported by other councillors.

However, proposals to demolish a large house and replace it with four detached properties were still approved by members of the planning committee.

Council officers had recommended refusal of the plans on the grounds that the house makes an important contribution in a conservation area, and there would be an unacceptable loss of three sycamore trees.

Neighbours had also complained that the house was in good condition and there was no need for it to be pulled down. They also claimed the character of the area had been eroded by over-development, there would be too much strain on local amenities, there would be increased traffic and it would set a precedent for future developments.

Cllr John Hanscomb, who lives near the proposed development, said: "I would rather approve this than two huge monstrosities. It's been recommended for refusal, but I'm scared of what the alternative could be." Cllr Nick Peel said: "The proposed building is not particularly aesthetically pleasing, but I've got no problem with the development."

Bolton and District Civic Trust has also criticised the number of developments it has seen built on the route.

Part of the road, from Greenmount Lane to Beaumont Road and from Victoria Road to Middlebrook, was designated a conservation area in 1974.

It was recognised that the area had retained some of its Victorian and early 20th century buildings and was part of Bolton's identity. Development should be carefully controlled to reflect and enhance this character.

The chairman of the civic trust's planning committee, Peter Hope, said: "I was disappointed by the councillors' decision. They approached the application in the wrong way. The house is in a designated conservation area and there is no case for it to be demolished."