RESIDENTS were warned they could not stop development of a former mill site even if a planning inspector upheld Rossendale Council's decision to refuse an application.

The controversial development of the former mill site at Irwell Springs, off Heald Lane, Weir, into 42 houses was refused permission by planners last year on grounds it contravened Government guidelines. At a public inquiry in the town hall, Rawtenstall, barrister for the applicant Cheshire-based Wordsworth Corporation, Robert Turrall-Clarke said that whatever the outcome of the appeal residents could not stop development.

An earlier application was given approval in 1990 and work on phase one of that development had already been carried out meaning no further approval was needed before the remaining houses could be built.

Rossendale's development control manager Brian Sheasby said he believed there was no realistic prospect that the earlier approval would ever by implemented, but this was disputed by inspector Stuart Nixon who pointed out the land was worth more to the owner in housing terms than for agricultural purposes.

Mr Sheasby maintained the plans contravened Government guidelines and were unsustainable being a distance away from amenities, jobs and a quality bus service.

He also said the district local plan was under review and the designation of the site, currently brownfield, may change.