PROPOSALS for a nursery in a converted cottage have prompted objections from neighbours who fear a rise in traffic.

Residents in Whitworth attended a town council meeting to express their fears, which also include concerns about drainage and protected trees.

Teacher Helen Wood intends to convert the house, in Wallbank Drive, into The Old Orchard Day Nursery, with 22 spaces for children aged up to four.

Coun Alan Neal said he had asked Rossendale Council to call-in the planning applcation after a debate at a full meeting of Whitworth Town Council on December 19.

Coun Neal said: “A number of local residents who attended the meeting expressed the following concerns.

“Firstly, on highways safety grounds, regarding the increased numbers of traffic movements into and out of the access site.

“Secondly, with regards to the removal of trees from the application site, given that all these trees are covered by tree protection orders, a matter which has been confirmed by Rossendale Council’s legal department.

“Thirdly, residents also expressed serious concerns with regards to drainage issues within the application site.”

Coun Neal added that although he did not necessarily share those residents’ views, he felt it was his responsibility to raise the concerns with the council.

Miss Wood, a professionally-qualified early years specialist, said she hoped to create six full-time jobs and five part-time positions when the nursery opened.

Miss Wood, from Tong Lane, Whitworth, said: “Where extra traffic and parking is concerned, there are already effective traffic calming measures in the form of speed bumps, from the main road through the village to the area where the nursery will be based.

“To ensure the traffic increase is kept to a minimum, the children will arrive and depart at various times throughout the day.”