UNUSED farmland could be used for eight new holiday lodges in the Ribble Valley.

Plans have been submitted to Ribble Valley Council asking for permission to build the lodges on land off Whalley Road in Hurst Green.

The land has not been used for more than six years and it is hoped the proposed development could take advantage of its' location near the Tolkien walking trail and the Forest of Bowland.

If approved, the development would consist of seven three-bed lodges and one four-bed lodge.

Each would have a lounge, kitchen, bathroom and covered veranda with outdoor seating.

Discussions were held with the council in May 2016 and developers were told the scheme would be supported in principle.

A previous application submitted last year was withdrawn after concerns were raised about the impact on the landscape.

Developers say the new scheme has an alternative design which takes those concerns into account.

A design and access statement submitted as part of the application reads: "The application site is located within a rural locality with very few residential occupiers in close proximity to the site.

"The nearest residential occupier is in fact located a considerable distance from the site and dense vegetation and mature trees separates the site from this.

"Given the distances involved, the proposal is unlikely to harm amenity of residential occupiers.

"No issues were raised regarding amenity within pre-application discussions with the local planning authority and although a noise impact assessment was identified as a document that should accompany the submission, it is not considered in this instance to be necessary.

"The applicant has sought ot form a scheme which responds to some initial concerns regarding the potential impact on the open countryside and Forest of Bowland AONB to which the boundary is located on the opposite side of the road.

"The design of the lodges would adopt a rustic character and appearance.

"The scheme can adequately blend in to the open countryside setting without detracting from the character and appearance of the area."