PLANS for nine new homes in Darwen could be approved despite concerns over road safety and impact on wildlife.

An application to build house on land next to Moorthorpe Cottage in Park Road will be discussed by Blackburn with Darwen Council's planning and highways committee on May 29.

Case officer Nick Blackledge has recommended the proposal be approved despite more than 40 letters of objection against the plans.

Mr Blackledge said in a report to go before the committee: "Outline planning permission is sought for a residential development of nine detached houses.

"The application considers the principle of residential development, the layout of the proposed dwellings and access from the public highway into the site.

"The remaining details relative to appearance, landscaping and scale (including bedroom numbers / internal layout) will be considered under a subsequent application for reserved matters.

"The proposal seeks to deliver a high quality development of family sized detached dwellings set within proportionate sized plots; each including either detached or integral garages.

"Highway infrastructure is laid out in cul-de-sac form with appropriately incorporated turning facilities.

"Retained woodland will define the landscape characteristics of the outer perimeter of the development.

"Detailed additional hard and soft landscaping will be addressed at reserved matters stage."

Residents living nearby the proposed development raised a number of concerns with the council as part of a consultation.

Among the issues raised were insufficient access and poor visibility on surrounding roads, as well as potential damage to the habitat of any wildlife near the proposed development.

But developers say steps will be taken to mitigate the impact.

Agent Sophie Marshall of chartered surveyors P Wilson & Co, said: "Great care and attention have been taken over protecting the important ancient woodlands.

"They have been actively managed by the applicant in the past, and the intention is to continue with this.

"The woodlands will form a backdrop, and completely surround this proposed community of high quality, executive housing.

"It will provide future occupiers with a high standard of living, and an idyllic place to live. It is likely to be a popular development in the area, thereby providing a deliverable scheme.

"All access will be via the existing drive off Chestnut Grove."

But despite those concerns, a recommendation to approve the proposal will be discussed by councillors.

Mr Blackledge has also recommended a condition be attached that permission is dependent on an agreement for Section 106 cash being struck.

The council hopes to secure a £35,154 payment with £12,654 towards green infrastructure and £22,500 towards affordable housing elsewhere in the borough.