JAKE Berry MP has raised the issue of a controversial development in Rossendale in Parliament.

It follows the MP meeting Rawtenstall residents concerned about Rossendale Council and Calico Homes’ plans for a 65-bed specialist dementia care centre at Barlow Fold playing fields off Cherry Tree Lane.

Neighbours and users of the football pitch said the proposals would mean children having to travel 1.5-miles to Marl Pits for a kickabout.

Mr Berry put a question to Don Foster, the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government in the House of Commons.

He said: “I met residents around the Barlow Fold site in Rossendale, which is a playing field given to local residents by the Barlow family for recreation.

“Can the Minister advise me what steps I can take to stop the borough council and Calico Homes acting in concert to develop that greenfield site?

“It is vital for the local community. And there are more than 30 brownfield sites in a similar area.”

Mr Foster said: “I encourage my honourable friend to make use of the community rights that are available.

“You should ensure the land has been registered as a community asset. And encourage residents to make use of the opportunities provided by the neighbourhood planning facilities we have made available.”