HUNDREDS of householders have united to fight plans to build a coalyard in Westhoughton.

More than 500 residents have written letters objecting to proposals for a controversial coal depot at Manchester Road, Chequerbent.

Bristol-based haulage firm EH Bennett is applying for a licence to operate a depot at the former Co-op yard.

It has already been given a certificate saying the development can go ahead, but is waiting for authorisation under the Environmental Protection Act 1990.

Campaigners fear the yard could cause massive traffic and pollution problems.

Bolton West MP Ruth Kelly has received 536 letters of objection, which she has now presented to Bolton Council.

More than 650 residents have also signed a petition against it. Hulton Park councillor Andrew Morgan has been visiting local homes to listen to people's concerns.

Ms Kelly said: "The objections relate to possible health risks and environmental damage from coal dust.

"I have also received representations concerning other implications such as additional traffic congestion, noise and pollution."

EH Bennett had applied to open a similar yard on Station Road, Blackrod, but the application was turned down following a campaign by residents.

The firm applied for authorisation to open the yard at Chequerbent in January, but the application was sent back because it did not contain enough information.

It has now submitted another application, which will be decided at a meeting on Wednesday, August 7, in Committee Room A at the town hall. The meeting will be open to the public.

Cllr Morgan, who will speak on behalf of residents, said: "People have the right to expect a good standard of living. They do not want this coalyard to open. I cannot stress how much people are against it."

A council spokesman said: "The council must consider people's representations, information provided by the firm and guidance notes from the Government.

"It will then determine whether or not an authorisation should be issued."