PLANS to build 12 new apartments on the site of the former Mytholme House, in Waterfoot, have been passed Rossendale Council planning committee approved the Green Vale Homes housing scheme at a meeting on Tuesday, concluding that the development is the best possible option for the site.

Green Vale Homes had previously put forward plans for a much larger development at the Mytholme House site, which were rejected by the council.

A group of campaigners attended the meeting and argued that the development would be ‘hugely detrimental’ to local businesses.

Mytholme House will now be demolished to make way for a three-storey building of 12 flats, and parking, for residents aged over 55.

Coun Jackie Oakes, who sits on the planning committee, said Waterfoot has the most underdeveloped potential of anywhere in the Valley, and said ‘the council has to start somew- here’.

Green Vale Homes will provide £16,000 for community projects as part of the scheme.

Coun Oakes urged the protesters to work with the council to decide how to spend the funds.

Coun Anne Cheetham backed the plans.

She said: “It’s a little monster.

“If it gets rid of Mytholme House I will be thrilled. It’s a blight in Waterfoot.”

Coun Andrea Fletcher also voted to approve the plans.

She said: “I’m sure Green Vale is not going to hand over the land for a green space. so it’s about making the best of the plans.

“I can’t think of anywhere more suitable for elderly people than a place near to local amenities and a bus stop.”