THE development of a village on the site of the former Royal Ordnance Factory in Chorley will bring economic benefits to the area, says a local county councillor.

Mark Perks, whose Chorley North ward covers Buckshaw Village, said its new facilities would help nearby areas.

Buckshaw, on the brownfield site of a former ordnance factory, is one of Europe's biggest housing developments.

It currently boasts a hairdressers and beauty salon although a newsagents and pharmacy are expected to open soon.

Mr Perks told BBC Lancashire: "One of the problems people find in Astley village and nearby Euxton is the fact that there aren't those particular services like a pharmacy or doctors surgeries or dentists.

"If 2,000 homes are being built, you're talking about 5,000 plus people (living there).

"There is definitely going to be a need for these services so I think they'll benefit if there's more shops."