A PUBLIC inquiry into controversial plans to build five blocks of flats in a railway cutting has ended.

Blackthorn homes wants to build the five-storey blocks - with a total of 113 flats - on land between Bradley Fold and Darcy Lever where the old Bury to Bolton railway line once ran.

Bolton Council refused planning permission for the scheme on seven different grounds at a meeting in May 2004.

A separate scheme for 50 homes on neighbouring land, which was also refused, was later given the go-ahead on appeal.

At the latest inquiry, chairman Philip Crookes, who is not expected to announce his decision until the New Year, said the Office of Deputy Prime Minister had ordered the inquiry because of the major issues it raised for housing in the area.

Ruth Stockley, representing the council, said: "In the councils view the proposals would not only fail to have any regard to existing development or be compatible with it, but would be totally alien to this locality.

"The council accepts that the site is a derelict site that ought to be brought forward into beneficial use.

"But that could be achieved, as could the other benefits put forward by the appellant, by a much reduced scheme that would be compatible with the surrounding area and an acceptable design with the retention of many more of the existing trees."

But Frances Paterson, counsel for Blackthorn Homes, claims the development will be a landmark building and will bring great benefit to the local area.

She said: "It is a bespoke design, which is innovative and takes advantage of a significant site in the area. It was previously a disused, derelict site and while the development will stand out that is exactly what is intended."

Other concerns aired by the council and local residents included increased traffic in the nearby roads.