PLANS to create a 20-cottage holiday complex in Weir have been refused.

Councillors received a round of applause from villagers at the development control committee meeting when they unanimously voted to reject the application to create a holiday park of tourist lodges at Scar End Farm, in Weir Lane.

Councillors agreed with the many residents, and planning officers, that the development would be detrimental to the character and appearance of the Greenfield area, which is well used by ramblers and walkers.

They also said it was "not in keeping with the intrinsic character of the buildings and landscape of the area".

The steep gradient of the location meant the complex would be very visible, as no landscaping would screen it adequately, the meeting was told.

Speaking against the proposal, a previous version of which was refused last year, Bacup councillor Judith Driver said: "Residents in Weir have already put up with a great deal of development. "It has almost taken over the green sites of the area. "This further proposal is, in my opinion, totally inappropriate."

Also mentioned in the 144 letters of objection was worry over increased traffic and a safety risk on Burnley Road, and the risk to wildlife.

The applicant Gary Davis's assertions that the development would create employment and attract visitors to the Valley were heavily outweighed by the concerns, the meeting heard.