DEVELOPERS planning a £4million redevelopment of Lea Bank have told how well their proposals have been received by the public.

Stephen Ashworth, managing director of Rawtenstall-based Hurstwood Group, said he was pleased with how well received the plans had been.

Following a meeting between opposing groups - Rossendale Civic Trust and the Lea Bank Group, they have agreed to leave the decision in the hands of planners, despite still having differing views on the proposals.

Plans for apartments, executive homes and a woodland visitor centre have been put forward by the developers.

Campaigners battled throughout the summer of 2001 to protect the site from development. The Civic Trust have said the amended plans, which include building four new houses, were against the district plan.

In the plans, existing buildings are being retained and refurbished and the woodland will be looked after.

Mr Ashworth said: "We are delighted with the feedback we have received from the plans for Lea Bank.

"It was a delicate process but we worked long and hard with the Lea Bank Action Group to come up with a scheme that will be a lasting benefit for everyone in the area.

"The schoolhouse will be brought back to life and the woodland will be preserved and cared for by the charitable trust. Working together I think we will create something very special that will be appreciated by everyone in Rossendale."

Lea Bank, originally a private house built in the mid-1800's, was last used as a school. It closed in September 2000 and has been vacant since then.

Mr Ashworth added: "The joint proposals will transform this derelict and vacant site into a prestigious development of houses and apartments and all the existing buildings are being retained and refurbished."