A DECISION on whether to approve plans for a controversial animal incinerator in Hapton has been deferred until at least September.

Lancashire County Council's development control sub-committee has decided to visit the site of the proposed plant before making a decision as to whether or not it should go ahead.

The next meeting of the sub-committee will be in September when the application will probably be on the agenda.

Ward Coun Andy Tatchell, speaking on behalf of residents of the village, said: "We are very happy that the county council is taking this decision.

"We are now are going to come and look at the site for themselves."

The proposal, which has been submitted by Enviro Skips for the former Hapton Valley Colliery site, has met with a storm of protest from local residents who are strongly opposed to the plan.