CONCERNS have been raised about the security of a site earmarked for housing.

Councillors in Oswaldtwistle said they fear the former St Andrews House in Kay Street could become a magnet for anti-social behaviour, flytipping and travellers if security is not stepped up.

The warning comes after a metal fence erected around the site was knocked down and damaged by teenagers.

Last year, councillors approved plans for eight homes to be built upon the site.

Councillors said residents are also concerned about the safety of children who play on or near the site.

Cllr Judith Addison, who represents Oswaldtwistle on Hyndburn Council, said: “Quite often around that area there’s been problems with travellers.

“It’s dangerous for the children to be messing around with the fence.

“People have complained that kids keep pulling down the fencing, there’s quite a lot of elderly residents in sheltered housing in that area that aren’t happy.”

Initial proposals for eight homes on the site were submitted in August 2016 but were turned down as they did not provide sufficient parking.

Applicant Phil Bowdler resubmitted the plans and included parking provisions in October and received planning approval.

Cllr Peter Britcliffe said sturdier fencing needs to be put up to protect the site and the children in the area.

He said: “Residents are all complaining that children are pushing the fencing over.

“They’re worried that the travelling community will move on to it.

“Insecure land can also become a magnet for other issues like flytipping.

“The most important thing at any site like this there is the issue of safety, children can be injure themselves.”

Mr Bowdler said: “I’ll be putting the fences back up as soon as possible.

“If anyone sees anything they should just let me know and I’ll do everything I can to sort it.

“The area had problems before, the old building on the site was devastated by vandals.”

Mr Bowdler said building work for the homes should begin in June.