MILLIONS of pounds in compensation is being paid out to householders affected by the M65 extension.

Although the new stretch of motorway was opened more than two years ago, payments for the effects it has had on the value of homes are only just starting to filter through.

Most of the claims -- which were anticipated when the road was planned -- affect householders in the Guide, Lower Darwen and Tockholes areas and can be as much as 15 per cent of the value of homes close to the motorway.

A number of surveyors have been helping householders prepare claims for compensation against the Highways Agency which can only be made once a new road has been open for at least a year.

It is understood as many as 2,000 homes from Blackburn to Bamber Bridge could be involved.

Richard Prest, of chartered surveyors Lea Hough & Co of Blackburn, explained that the compensation payments were for physical effects the motorway has had on local houses including noise and artificial light since it opened

"The compensation is basically worked out on a percentage of the value of the property and how close it is to the motorway." Claims of up to 15 per cent of the value of a property can be made up to five years after the motorway has opened. Successful claimants are also entitled to interest payments on compensations sums agreed. But although payments have been agreed with homeowners, some are still unhappy about the effect the road has had.

Harry and Dorothy Blackwell, whose home in Blackburn Road, Darwen, backs onto the motorway, are angry about noise levels from the extension since it opened.

"The noise issue is separate to the compensation we have agreed for the loss of value.

"When the wind blows in a certain direction it sounds like planes are landing."

Shrewsbury-based surveyor Graham Shortt is trying to trace a Mrs M J Matthews who used to live at 349 Haslingden Road, Guide. He has secured around £2,000 compensation for her but she has moved and he has no forwarding address. He can be contacted on 01743 361225.