PLANS to build an office block on the banks of the River Ribble near Clitheroe, have been put on hold in a row over potential flooding.

Ribble Valley Council's planning committee last year rejected plans by Gisburn developer Hamilton Associates, to construct the office block and 10 parking spaces, just 20 metres away from the River Ribble on land at The Spinney, off East View, Grindleton.

The original scheme was given the thumbs-down by councillors on the grounds it would increase flooding problems at the site and affect residential amenity.

But the developer resubmitted plans after a flood risk assessment revealed it was unlikely to make the flooding problems any worse.

Councillors have now agreed to defer a decision on the matter and commission an independent assessment, after hearing the Environment Agency, the Government's environment watchdog, also had concerns about flooding.

Councillors heard 192 residents objected to the resubmitted scheme, on the grounds it would be an eyesore and at risk of flooding.

Resident David Rawkins, said. "We are totally against this scheme. The site has flooded five times in recent years and there is no need for an office block in this area. The proposed development will spoil the beautiful approach to the village for tourists and residents alike."

Ribble Valley planning officer John Macholc, said the site already had permission for commercial development and recommended the revised scheme be approved.

The former Ribblesdale Mill site was demolished in 1996 with a view to building 12 workshops and a two-storey business centre.

Hamilton Associates was given permission in 1997 to construct nine houses and garages at the site, renamed The Spinney.

Mr Macholc said: "This is a former employment site and committee members should be mindful of that. The proposed use of this site for an office block is an appropriate one according to our policies and I can find no justifiable reason to withold consent.

"The applicant has carried out a flood risk assessment, which concludes the proposed development will not exacerbate flooding either upstream or downstream of the site.

"Committee has expressed concern over the visual impact of the structure, but the size of the building has been reduced and is now of a traditional design, reflecting houses on The Spinney.

"The proposed office block will be 30 metres away from the nearest dwelling and I do not believe traffic entering the site will significantly effect residential amenity."