PLANNING permission has been granted for houses to be built on the site of a former rubbish tip in Westhoughton despite objections from nearby residents about contamination.

The houses will be built on land off Cherwell Road by the Northern Trust Company, but details of the type of development have not yet been revealed.

The plans were deferred at a previous planning meeting to allow for a public meeting to be held with the developer following concerns from members of the public.

Members of Westhoughton Town Council had also raised objections to the plans on the grounds of contamination concerns and the lack of open space for Cherwell Estate.

Residents attending the meeting were split between those in favour of the housing development as it will transform an untidy and rundown area and those against the proposal because of contamination fears.

Surveys had found that the site contained arsenic, iron, zinc and copper and residents fear methane could prove a danger.

Cllr David Wilkinson said: "The developers have been fair in answering questions, but there is a real split in public opinion.

"To be fair, the company has been trying to keep the area tidy, but members of the public have been fly-tipping there.

"Most people think there is not enough public space there and a wooded space should be encouraged."

However, Cllr John Noble said: "This is something for us to be positive about and is a good way to clear up a rundown area."

Despite details on the number and type of houses not having been revealed, it is thought they will not exceed 150 properties.