CAMPAIGNERS against a leisure development at Cleveleys could fight on despite the government throwing out their calls for a public inquiry, writes Nikki Masters.

Jubilee Action Group, Waters Reach Residents Association and individual protestors are understood to be baffled by the Government Office North West's decision not to 'call in' plans for a multiplex cinema, health club, public house and restaurant next to Jubilee Gardens on the seafront.

If the decision had been called in the planning application would have gone to Secretary of State John Prescott for a final decision.

But Wyre Borough Council has been told it can deal with the application itself - which means the planning committee's previous approval of the scheme still stands, much to the despair of some Waters Reach residents who will be living back-to-back with the development.

Reg Vokins, Waters Reach Residents Association spokesman, said: "We don't understand why the Secretary of State has failed to call this in, even though we understood from the Government Office of the North West that the Secretary of State can only get involved in matters of regional and national importance.

"That he seems to fail to appreciate that this council has not followed its own Local Plan or government guidelines is beyond our simple comprehension."

He said the group was keen to see the matter 'get the maximum investigation'.

He added: "We understand that there's no form of appeal, or there is probably little we can do, unless of course we decide to make a legal challenge. Ourselves and Jubilee Action Group are obviously looking at all options as to a way forward."

However, Wyre Borough Council portfolio holder for the physical environment, Cllr Peter Hawley, said: "I am very pleased that they have decided to deal with this matter with such urgency.

"Although not the answer that some people were hoping for, I think it is a very good result for Wyre Borough and for the rest of the residents of Cleveleys, who are in favour of this development.

"I am quite confident that the development, when finished, will be very beneficial and pleasing for the residents of Cleveleys."