PROPOSALS for 10 new homes in Darwen have been approved despite concerns over the loss of trees.

The development at a 0.8-acre site off Fountain Street in Darwen will see the felling of birch, ash and rowan trees to accommodate the new homes.

Campaigners voiced more than 30 objections to the plans and a leaflet was produced which was distributed to homes in the area, entitled Save Our Trees,

It cited an increase in traffic and loss of the trees as major reasons to complain.

But planning and highways committee members approved the proposals and development can now get under way.

Planning officer Nick Blackledge said: “The Tree Preservation Order trees proposed to be removed are all birch specimens.

“Birch are one of the shortest British native species, reaching maturity at around 40 years before they start to decline. Since the 1990 TPO application was imposed the trees have developed many defects.

Cllr Neil Slater added: “The kids play on that land and that path to the school is well used. Losing it will be a down side.”