CONTROVERSIAL plans to build 122 new homes at Devine Fisheries in Accrington could be thrown out.

Dozens of objections have been received against the proposal on land off Broad Oak Road, which included 50 three-bed homes, 43 four-bed homes and 29 properties available under affordable housing provisions.

Fears were raised about the impact the development would have on wildlife in the area as well as traffic problems and pressures on schools in the area.

The application will be discussed by Hyndburn Council’s planning committee next week, with officers recommending permission be refused.

Developers plans for the new homes were initially shelved earlier this year after complaints the site could ‘destroy’ nature in the area and cause traffic issues.

Applicant Windmill Rise SPV Ltd said further coal surveys and highway layout work were needed and the application came back to the table in June.

The site was historically part of the Broad Oak Printworks and features two remaining reservoirs used for fisheries, as well as two redundant landfill sites.

More than 60 representations were received from members of the public citing concerns over the development.

As well as traffic and wildlife fears, people complained the site is used by children and walkers and claimed parking provision was inadequate.

A report to go before the committee states: “The development of 122 dwellings in this area of open countryside would change the character and appearance of this rural area to an urban area."