ONE of the gateways into Rawtenstall could be permanently spoiled unless residents speak out, according to civic campaigners and neighbours.

Townsend Fold, off the A56, has been earmarked for 66 homes under the second stage of Rossendale Council’s Local Plan consultation.

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But Rossendale Civic Trust and the Friends and Residents of Townsend Fold have voiced their concerns over the fact that the “pleasant” approach into the valley will be irrevocably lost.

Under the Lives and Landscapes consultation, borough residents will have the chance over the next seven weeks to have their say on housing and employment land allocations across Rawtenstall, Bacup, Haslingden, Whitworth and surrounding areas.

Kathy Fishwick, civic trust chairman, said: “The people of Rossendale need to wake up.

“The current and all-too-short consultation on the Lives and Landscapes document means your lives and your landscape and that of generations to come.

“If you don’t want the sinking feeling of finding a planning application notice taped to a lamp post behind your house, if you want a skyline of hills rather than rooftops, and space to play and take your dog for a run, now is the time to get in there.

“Otherwise the developers will beat you to it.

“The future is in your hands – let’s plan for green now rather than see red when it’s too late.”

David Nuttal, friend and resident group chairman, added: “The greenbelt at Townsend Fold provides a pleasant and open approach into Rawtenstall, enhancing strongly the visual charm and appeal of Rossendale as a tourist destination.

“The residents object strongly to any development that will degrade what is an attractive semi-rural location.”

The area provides an important backdrop to the East Lancashire Railway, which pauses in the area to allow the service of the main meal during the journey to Rawtenstall.

“The area is a great attraction for dog walkers, ramblers and photographers providing a green highway to the banks of the Irwell.”

Councillors have rubber-stamped a seven-week consultation exercise at a full council meeting and residents can view the full recommendations on the council’s website at rossen dale.gov.uk.