A RECENTLY formed residents' action group is hoping to hold talks with council bosses over plans to build 800 homes in their village.

People living in Huncoat decided to form the group after it was revealed a massive development is on the cards for the village.

The action group has seen the architect's drawings of the new estate and hope to have their views on the massive development heard.

The group want to see a new community centre, shops and doctor's surgery included in the plans, but moves to build on soccer pitches used by Huncoat United have caused the most controversy.

Chris Oates, a spokesman for the action group, said: "The council is not going to change its mind about this development so we have to be able to reach a compromise.

"The only way we can get our views across to the council is by talking to them. Demonstrations and petitions are not going to stop the houses being built."

Chris added: "The football pitches have been an important part of the community in Huncoat for many years and are very popular. "We have seen the plans and the site for the new pitches is not as big as the current one and perhaps some sort of compensation would be in order.

"It would be nice if we could get the council to agree to pay for fencing or even floodlighting at the new pitches."

Hyndburn council has already decided to carry out a number of public consultations in the village at the end of the February.

The action group are keen to get as many Huncoat residents to join their campaign.

Anyone wanting more information on the group should ring Chris Oates 01254 384434.

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