A PLAN to build apartments in Ramsbottom took a new twist this week when a landowner accused developers of encroaching on his land.

The claim came just days before the application was due to be discussed for a second time by councillors last night (Thurs Sept 6) after planning officers originally failed to notify 18 residents living in the area of the proposed development.

McDermott Developments Ltd has submitted the application to build 36 apartments on the site of the former Oakdene Sports Car Centre in Stubbins Lane.

But Mr James Davenport told the Bury Times that the development would intrude on his land. He said: "I only learned about the proposed development when I read about it in the Bury Times last Friday. Nobody has approached me and I am incensed." Mr Davenport, who lives on Shipperbottom Farm in Ramsbottom, added: "I have the deeds to prove that the plot they want to develop on includes my land."

Mr Davenport admitted that he had sold a piece of the land, on which Oakdene Sports Car Centre stands, but that the plans also included developing land that belongs to him.

The news has been welcomed by residents, who claim that the plan to build apartments will have a detrimental effect on the area.

Their concerns include increased traffic on already congested roads, parking problems, destruction of trees and wildlife, devaluing of property, and loss of privacy caused by the block of flats.

The application, which councillors are "minded to approve" subject to a legal agreement with the developers for a financial contribution for open space in the area, was being discussed last night in the wake of the residents' objections.

McDermott Developments Ltd refused to comment on Mr Davenport's claims that the plans encroach on his land without permission.