PLANS to extend an historic building to provide a new mental health care service in Rossendale have been thrown out by councillors.

Health chiefs wanted to turn Balladen House, in the grounds of Rossendale Hospital, into a mental health resource centre for people suffering with psychiatric problems, as well as a staff training centre.

The plans also included creating a 60 space car park on greenbelt land.

But residents living close to Balladen House in Union Road, Rawtenstall, sent a 70 signature petition and dozens of letters objecting to proposals.

The neighbours were concerned about the impact the development would have on their homes and also feared for the safety of children living and going to school in the area.

Campaigner Steven Hutchins, of Union Road, said: "There is a strong feeling of objection to this scheme in the community and that is reflected by 70 residents signing a petition and objecting to the plans.

"We do not oppose mental health improve-ments in this area but there are kestrels, owls, badger setts and bats on this site which are protected species and the intended use would have a huge impact on local residents.

"Is it right that such a resource should be placed in a residential area?"

But Coun Christine Lamb said: "People have expressed a concern about the use of the mental health resource centre.

"I want to express great sadness and anger because people are saying children won't be safe. I would rather visit that unit than go in a pub on a Saturday night as it is far safer.

"One in four people suffer mental health problems in their life and I hope there's better treatment available."

The application from Lancashire Care NHS Trust follows the closure of Ward 11, the mental health unit, at Rossendale General Hospital in December last year and pre-empts the results of a consultation into future health care provision.

Longholme ward councillor June Forshaw added: "I really do think it's a case of putting the cart before the horse. The consultation for future health care is on-going.

"The application is pre-empting any decision they may make as to what provisions there will be and where they will be sited."

However councillors rejected the plans in a bid to safeguard greenbelt land.

A spokesman for Lancashire Care NHS Trust said they were unable to comment on the outcome as they were still in discussions with the council.