PLANS to build 15 homes on a patch of green land in Colne have been rejected by councillors.

The scheme, by Together Housing, would have provided affordable properties for sale and rent.

The development between Essex Street and Colne Lane was narrowly voted down by members of Pendle Council's Colne and District Commitee.

Waterside Liberal Democrat Cllr Tony Greaves said: "I am delighted. This is green open space where local children can play safely without crossing a busy road."

Vivary Bridge Tory Cllr Joe Cooney, who moved approval, said: "I am disappointed.

"This was land, including a former a garage site, which Pendle Council declared surplus to requirements when Cllr Greaves was deputy leader. These would have been affordable homes."

Cllr Greaves said: "I spoke to residents and decided this land should not have been declared as surplus."

Local resident Anne McGladdery said : "“This is a small but vital piece of ‘village green’ type green space in the middle of tightly packed terraced streets."