NEIGHBOURS of a proposed development of 13 affordable bungalows for the over-55s have expressed fears the social housing could lower the value of their homes.

Their objections will be considered when councillors debate the scheme on Thursday night.

Cawder Construction want to build the single-storey properties on a patch of grassland in Borrowdale Avenue, Queen's Park, Blackburn.

They would be managed by Together Housing and provide single-storey, affordable accommodation for people aged 55 and over.

Three nearby residents on Borrowdale Avenue have objected to the scheme.

Their concerns include:

  • social housing may change the area’s character;
  • loss of public open space;
  • the dwellings may not be maintained well;
  • traffic problems;
  • damage to local wildlife;
  • and negative impact on property prices.

Despite their worries, Blackburn with Darwen Council planning committee has been recommended to approve the scheme with 17 conditions and a contribution from the developer of £18,000 for the enhancement of off-site open space provision.

A report to the councillors by planning officer Christian Barton says: "The proposals would deliver 13 two-bedroom bungalows within a sustainable location for new housing development.

"The dwellings would be affordable bungalows and the supporting information states that the accommodation will be provisioned for older people.

"The properties would have one double bedroom and one single bedroom together with kitchen areas, living areas and a wet room/shower room

"The dwellings would be constructed in a modern style.

"Moreover, services, facilities and regular public transport links are all within walking distance.

"Council policy encourages the development of a full range of new housing in order to widen the choice available in the local market.

"An emphasis is placed on family housing yet meeting the needs of people on low incomes is also prioritised, which includes the target occupants for these dwellings.

"Policy is generally supportive of proposals which provide affordable housing, including housing for older people.

"Specific concerns have been raised in public comments regarding the type of housing proposed yet it would ultimately be down to the site managers to ensure any prospective tenants are vetted, and potential anti-social behaviour is minimised.

"Further concerns have been raised in public comments regarding the potential of the development proposals to negatively affect property prices locally.

"However, such matters are immaterial to the assessment of planning applications.

"The proposed dwellings would not cause an adverse level of noise disturbance for neighbours given the nature of the end use.

"Moreover, the distances involved would ensure the domestic privacy of the immediate neighbours is adequately safeguarded."