A PLANNING inquiry into proposals to build a 40-bedroom hotel in Rossendale started this week.

The inquiry, being held at Rawtenstall Town Hall from today, is being conducted by Rossendale Borough Council's Planning Department. Members will assess whether or not the proposed development at The Fisherman's Retreat and Twine Valley Fishery in Shuttleworth will go ahead.

If successful, it is thought that it will create over 30 new jobs. Residents living nearby have been divided over their reaction to the proposed development.

Members of the Turn Residents' Association claimed that the £2 million project would increase traffic near their homes and mean a loss of open space.

But the East Lancashire Partnership and some local residents supported the plans, claiming there was a need for extra accommodation in the area and the provision of dedicated activities like fishing and horse riding.

The land earmarked for development is part of the green belt on the border with Ramsbottom, and is a popular area for weekend visitors and walkers. The proposed development would affect four existing footpaths.

If the building work is given the green light at this week's inquiry, a 40-bedroom hotel, conference centre, swimming pool, creche, visitor education centre and self-catering cabin complex will be created.

Should councillors give consent, it will then go to the Secretary of State for the Department for the Environment, Transport and Regions for a decision on whether a public inquiry would be needed.

Businessman Hevey Magnall, the man behind the scheme, was yesterday unavailable for comment.

Development at Twine Valley already includes the Fisherman's Retreat, fishery and an animal park with Highland cattle, shire horses, a pig and litter, goats and red deer.

Built over eight years, it provides 12 full-time and 20 part-time jobs.