PLANNERS are being urged to block plans for a conservatory on the side of a converted barn on Cowpe Road, Waterfoot.

The barn is a two-storey structure and the conservatory is proposed to be made from reclaimed stone in a lean-to structure.

A report to the engineering and planning sub-committee on Tuesday says: "The proposed residential extension does not meet the criteria for development in the countryside.

"In design terms the proposal fails to respect the simple built form of the former barn and would adversely affect its character and appearance.

"The essential character of the former barn is defined by its plain stone walls and rood; its robust form with a few simple apertures reflecting its former function, and absence of architectural embellishment. "A lightweight glazed conservatory would be wholly at odds with that essential character."

The report concludes: "The proposal is unsupportable as it is contrary to the land use policies of the Rossendale District Local Plan in respect of development in the countryside.

"The proposed conservatory would adversely affect the character and appearance of the former barn and its relation to its surroundings contrary to Local Plan policies."