RESIDENTS vow to 'fight on' after plans to build hundreds of homes on scrub land were given the go ahead.

More than 150 objections were made against housing developer, Liberata, who drew up plans to build 200 homes in Nelson.

The new 'high quality housing' will be built on land which lies near Messenger Street, Windsor Street, Ash Tree Grove and Pinewood Drive.

The plans were given the go ahead following Pendle Council's development management committee meeting on Monday.

Residents living nearby said the idea was 'ridiculous' and fear the development will increase traffic congestion, damage wildlife and create parking issues.

Pinewood resident Maria Wyatt, who took to the streets with neighbours and set up a petition against the plans, said she was 'devastated' by the news.

Mrs Wyatt, who has lived on Pinewood Drive for 12 years, said: "I think the residents will be up in arms and devastated by this news.

"How on earth will this single road be able to deal with another 800 cars?

"I'm also worried that emergency services will struggle to get in and out of the site.

"I believe people will just move away because the value of the houses will go down.

"It's gone through and not one person I spoke to on this street said 'what a good idea'.

"The fight against Liberata and the council will continue.

"I think it's ridiculous that the council has given planning consent to build more houses when we do not need anymore."

Pendle Council's leader said he 'empathises' with the residents but stressed there was nothing the council could do.

Cllr Mohammed Iqbal, leader of Pendle Council, said: "I empathise with what the residents are saying.

"One of the main objections to the application was lack of school provision.

"I have spoken to Lancashire County Council and I am calling on them to build an additional primary school in the area in order to provide enough school places for children in the area.

"I understand the residents are upset but the council does not have a choice.

"The reason the council is having to pass it is because we have to meet house building targets set by the government."

Liberata were unavailable for comment.