PLANS to build up to 50 houses on disused farming land have been given the go-ahead despite objections from people living nearby.

The application to turn 1.8 hectares of land at Hillside Farm, Parker Street, Accrington, into a housing development was approved by Hyndburn Borough Council's development services committee after councillors agreed the development at the derelict poultry farm would benefit the appearance of nearby Burnley Road.

But residents argued that if the development went ahead childrens' lives could be at risk owing the increase flow of traffic trying to turn from the site on to busy Burnley Road.

Concerns were also raised about the quality of education, following the argument that more houses, meant more families, and increased strain on local schools by an influx of new pupils.

Residents wondered whether schools would get increased budgets to cope with the additional demand.

The impact of local businesses was a further sticking point, as residents claimed the loss of the land would wipe out parking facilities for people using nearby businesses.

The issue of who would pay compensation for loss of earnings was raised.

They also pointed out that the if the development went ahead a natural habitat for wild animals would also be destroyed, including a natural pond on the site.

But planning officers were of the opinion the development should go ahead with the condition that no more than 30 houses per hectare should be built.

Coun Kenneth Curtis welcomed the development. He said: "If left it could have been turned into a dumping ground, and the proposal is in keeping with other developments in the area."