CALLS have been made for traffic problems to be addressed as part of proposals to build new homes at a former mill site.

Plans have been submitted for 43 three and four bedroom homes to be built at the former Albert Mill site in Rishton.

However concerns have been raised over traffic around the area, specifically the Petre Crescent estate.

Councillors have said they are in favour of housing on the site but said they have concerns over certain aspects of the current proposals.

Cllr Jeff Scales said this was the ‘last chance’ to connect the Petre Estate to the rest of Rishton and an access road to the site should be part of the plans.

He said: “It is an area that needs developing. We get kids on that site and fly-tipping.

“It needs to be the right development though.

“This is our last chance to make sure we get it right.

“Essentially the Petre Estate is one large cul-de-sac and you can only get access from one road.

“As car ownership has increased over the last few years the traffic problems in that are have got gradually worse.

“Because of parked cars on both sides of Station Road, at peak times, this can lead to a bottleneck effect, creating delays for residents and potentially restricting access to emergency vehicles.”

The plans submitted by Calico Investments Ltd for the new houses would also include 102 new parking spaces, which the councillor said could worsen problems.

He also raised concerns over a pedestrian cut from Mary Street onto the new development which Cllr Scales said ‘could end up being a real problem spot for anti-social behaviour’.

Cllr Ken Moss, who represents Rishton, said: “It would be great to see the investment in Rishton and it would help tidying up a couple of tacky streets, I would welcome it.

“However there is a longstanding issue with access.

“Myself and other councillors have been lobbying for an access road with the Petre Estate and the potential new estate.”

The applicant said the houses would provide a boost to the current site, which is home to the cleared mill site and lock up garages.

A spokesman for agent Condy and Lofthouse Ltd on behalf of the applicant said: “The aim of the proposal is to bring forward a modern and attractive residential scheme on presently vacant and derelict employment sites.”

Rishton Railway Station is located 500metre from the site, while it is a five minute walk for the Leeds and Liverpool Canal.