A CONTROVERSIAL application for a block of flats has been turned down by Bolton's planning councillors.

Residents objected to an application from Albaylde Ltd to build two two-storey apartment blocks on land at Regent Drive, Lostock.

Councillors were told at a planning and highways committee meeting that the scheme had been amended from 21 to 18 flats and town hall officers recommended it should be approved.

But 270 letters of objection were sent in to the original scheme and councillors decided to refuse planning permission.

They said that it would be over-development of the area and will lead to a loss of privacy for people who live nearby. Blackrod Cllr John Barrow said: "This would be completely out of character with the area."

Labour Cllr Tom Anderton added: "The access to Regent Drive at this point is very narrow."