COUNCILLORS have backed a call by villagers at Dunnockshaw for a change in planning laws.

It follows the registration by Lancashire social services of a controversial children's home.

Dunnockshaw Residents' Association was formed to fight the change of use of Moorland View, a former home for the elderly.

At Burnley's planning and environment committee, councillors backed their call for a change in planning laws which currently allow the change of use of premises within certain categories without a new application for planning permission.

Mike Johnson and Dave Latham, co-chairmen of the DRA, called for the "legal loophole" to be plugged.

Later this year they will meet Burnley MP Peter Pike at the House of Commons. Mr Johnson said the home was registered last Friday for 12 children aged eight to 12.

Mr Latham said: "I find it distressing that a change of this nature can take place and your planning committee doesn't have a say.

"We are talking about going from a home for elderly to a residential home for children with anti-social behavioural problems."

Head of planning services Karen McCabe suggested the committee make representations to the Government about the problems with the law as it stands.

Coun Anne Smith moved that the committee urge Mr Pike to recommend a Government review of the classification.

Coun Kath Reade said: "It is very sad that we are sitting here, not able to make decisions we ought to make.

"The new Government said it intended to restore power to local government. I would hope that a review of this will show they are prepared to carry that out."

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