Forty four new homes could be built on farm land after an application was lodged with the council.

MCI Developments Ltd want to demolish the existing buildings and build 44 new homes, as wells as a new vehicle access at land close to Carr Farm off Hardman Road in Rawtenstall.

Landscaping, public open space and associated works also form part of the proposals.

The site is located to the south of Hardman Avenue and to the east of Carr Farm Close and is approximately 1.72 hectares in size.

Currently there is a two storey dwelling on the site, with associated stables and a large menage and agricultural land, which appear to have been in use for horse grazing. A pond and a former well are also located on the eastern part of the site.

The proposed development will comprise 44 two-storey semi detached homes and will include four one-bed homes and five three-bed homes, all of affordable rent; plus 12 two-bed homes and 19 three-bed homes, all of shared ownership.

A planning statement submitted to Rossendale Council reads: “To facilitate access to the site, it is necessary to demolish an existing dwelling and stables sited off Hardman Avenue.

“The proposed access would utilise the existing point of access, then extend southwards into the site.

“Turning heads will be provided at the west and south of the site.

“The proposed access road has been designed to facilitate two ways vehicular movements and will allow vehicles to ingress and egress simultaneously.

“It will be designed to adoptable standards, suitable for the site to be serviced by refuse and emergency vehicles.

“Pedestrian movement is encouraged through the provision of 2m wide footways either side of the internal road network.

“The existing public right of way which crosses the site will be diverted to allow for its continued and safe use.

“All of the dwellings will benefit from parking. It is the intention for one space to be provided with each of the one- and two-bedroom dwellings, and two spaces for each of the three bedroom dwellings.

“All spaces will benefit from electric vehicle charging points. Secure cycle parking will be provided in the rear gardens of the proposed dwellings.

“The new homes will benefit from private rear gardens and landscaped frontage, and access to new dedicated areas of public open space.”

Initially the plans were for 54 homes but following a consultation in 2021, it was decided to reduce the number of dwellings to 44.

Letters to neighbours in April this year also raised concerns over increased risk of off-site flooding; increased pressure on local foul water drainage infrastructure; impacts on wildlife, including bats; impacts on views from existing properties; and an increased demand on public services.

Anyone wishing to comment on the plans can do so via Rossendale Council’s website.