A GROUP of residents opposed to plans to create a large caravan park in Stacksteads have launched their own website.

The plans, put forward by Harold Crook, are for a 62-place caravan park on land designated as 'countryside area' in the Local Plan, have been met by fierce opposition from residents of Springhill Avenue.

But Mr Crook feels the development would benefit the area and bring tourism to Stacksteads. The website, www.springhillgreen.co.uk, was developed by a number of residents who came together to fight the plans.

The website is aimed at giving residents factual information about the area and the plans, which are in the hands of Rossendale's planning committee.

Martin Walsh, who has lived in Springhill Avenue for 30 years with his wife Jacqueline, has helped spearhead the campaign to fight the controversial plans.

He said: "We set up the site to give other residents information about the plans and the reasons why we don't want the caravan site in Stacksteads."

Mr Walsh feels it will lead to an overcrowded village, with the site being used by undesirables. The website features several pictures, containing the history of the site.

He added: "They tried to make it work in Haslingden and look what happened.

"There are all sorts of people living in those caravans. We do not want them living near us.

"People have lost interest at the moment but we hope the website will encourage others to back us in objecting to the plans.

"We would like to keep the land as it is for outdoor pursuits, this won't bring in vast amounts of profits but it will keep the natural beauty."

Councillor Michael McShea said: "The plans are a long way of getting the go-ahead but it's nice to see residents coming together and making a joint effort to fight for something they believe in."