CANAL side homes are planned for a disused builders' yard alongside Leigh bridge.

The Manchester Ship Canal Company hopes to flatten the Albion Builders Supplies premises which has lain empty since the merchants went bust.

In its place the site would be redeveloped with two four storey locks of flats, one of eight two bedroom apartments and the other with 12.

Planners say the outline application suggests south-facing lounges and bedrooms, with kitchens and bathrooms on the other side, and parking for 34 cars.

Two non-listed buildings within the Conservation Area site would be demolished to create room for the flat blocks.

But people who run the fitness and nursery operations alongside the site aren't happy about the plans.

"Noise would lead to complaints and bad feelings between the residents and ourselves. Also car parking would be a major problem," said Christine Lewis of Good Body's.

She felt the area could be used for car parking and a landscaped picnic area.

Borough planning officer John Sloane said he welcomed redevelopment of this site but advised planners:"Noise from the health and fitness centre could be a problem. These could to some extent be overcome by careful acoustic insulation."

Councillors will visit the site before deciding whether or not the plan can proceed.

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