CONCERNS have been raised about overcrowding and traffic congestion after 'extremely disturbing' plans were submitted to build 43 homes at an old mill site.

The Lancashire Telegraph reported last month how an application was submitted to erect the new homes and create 102 parking spaces at the former Albert Mill site in Rishton.

However around 25 letters of objection have been sent to Hyndburn Council voicing residents displeasure against the plans at the land adjacent to Albert Street.

Concerns raised included traffic problems, a lack of school and GP places, and overcrowding.

Mr and Mrs Tarbuck, from Albert Street, said in a letter: "We already have issues on Albert Street and surrounding streets due to church and school events.

"It is ludicrous to build on it."

Mr and Mrs Yates from Walmsley Avenue said: "To be suddenly faced with the thought of at least 80-90 cars a day using this road directly outside our property is extremely disturbing."

Martin Kennedy, also from Walmsley Avenue, said: "The increase in traffic would cause substantial inconvenience to existing residents."

Representatives from Rishton Methodist Church also object to the plans as it is 'substantially on land' subject to a restrictive covenant in favour of the church.

Council bosses previously said they would be in favour of development at the site but any work must consider a link road between Walmsley Avenue and Walmsley Street, which has been requested for '25 years'.

Cllr Ken Moss, who represents the area on Hyndburn Council, said talks had taken place between developers, council bosses and Lancashire County Council regarding the potential road.

Currently a stretch of Walmsley Street is currently intended to be left cobbled which the councillors are not in favour of.

He said: "We wholeheartedly welcome this development but it has to be right for the surrounding residents too. .

"We have requested that new highways must to be up to adoption standards and the junction with Mary Street is realigned."

A design and access statement on behalf of applicant Calico Property Developments Ltd said: "The aim of the proposal is to bring forward a modern and attractive residential scheme on presently vacant and derelict employment sites in a predominantly residential area.

"The development of residential uses will deliver significant design-led benefits to the locality by improving environmental quality and residential amenity including a designated children’s play area."