A PLAN to set up a temporary car sales pitch in Rawtenstall has been denied by Rossendale Council.

Ribble Valley Motor Cars, based in Rishton, applied for permission to sell a range of budget to executive vehicles for a maximum of 18 months at land off New Hall Hey.

Coun Gladys Sandiford expressed fears that if the venture went ahead it could delay long-term plans for the site.

She said: "I feel we are being used and I don't understand the logic of it - so they would be here for 18 months and then beggar off!"

Coun David Stansfield said: "A load of cars in a forecourt doesn't look nice."

Daniel Hartley, speaking on behalf of the applicant at the meeting, said it was only a temporary venture but that it would provide short-term jobst for three or four people.

He said: "There is limited choice in Rawtenstall and people have to travel out of the borough. At the moment their current premises are looking to be redeveloped for retail purposes.

"They need a temporary home to sell vehicles and obviously this site was available."

Coun Alan Neal said he thought the site was a good idea, as the Valley had already lost two major car sales venues.

"If this company comes we may be able to persuade them to stay within Rossendale."