THIRTY new homes are to be built in Bacup.

The major development, on land near New Line and Deansgreave Road, was given the go-ahead by planning bosses after changes were made to the positioning of an access point.

The proposals had been deferred at an earlier meeting of the development control committee, in November last year. Artificial stone will be used to construct the houses, instead of the brick face originally intended.

The developers, Harron Homes Ltd, must also make a contribution of £6,500 to cover the costs of re-locating a bus shelter on the road.

Coun Jimmy Eaton said he welcomed the project, which the committee voted unanimously in favour of approving. He said: “The site has been derelict for years and different owners have been unsuccessful. It’s an eyesore and fly-tipping is a problem. All this development can do is improve the area and increase the value of surrounding properties.”

Lancashire Sock Manufacturing Co, based in New Line’s Britannia Mill, had objected to the plans, fearing increased pollution.