RIBBLE Valley MP Nigel Evans says excessive housing development is the key issue for residents.

Speaking in the midst of his six-day constituency tour, he said: “There is no doubt that planning is the number one issue for my constituents. They are concerned about over-development for homes, whether it is in Whalley, Barrow, Langho, Clitheroe or Sabden.

“People come to the area because of its lovely countryside but if it is all covered with houses it won’t be beautiful any more.

“I shall tackle new housing minister Brandon Lewis on this issue urgently.”