Up to 500 jobs could be created if a £21million development near Botany Bay gets the go-ahead.

Plans have been submitted for a 110 room hotel, a pub, industrial units and office accommodation by developers Bluemantle.

The site comprises part of the land between the M61 and the Leeds and Liverpool canal to the north of Botany Bay. Access would be gained from the existing roundabout to an area covering five hectares - around the size of six full size football pitches.

The first stage of the proposals, due to be heard by Chorley council's planning committee yesterday evening, would pave the way for a two-storey office unit and two single storey industrial units. This has been recommended for approval by planning officers.

Discussions are continuing between the council and Bluemantle for the next phase which would include a large hotel, pub and more light industry and warehousing.

The developers are hoping plans for these will be heard by the council at their next meeting on March 6.

Simon Isherwood of Bluemantle said they hoped to start work in May and added: "We are very excited by the potential of this area.

"I can confirm that the Ramada hotel chain and Mitchell and Butler Vintage Inns are very eager to come to Chorley.

"Based on the square metre capacity of our plans we envisage up to 500 permanent jobs will occupy the site."

The site is allocated in the Chorley borough local plan as suitable for employment purposes.

Leader of the council, Jack Wilson said: "From an economic point of view I welcome any development in that particular area and hope it brings jobs to the borough.

"There's no reason why land which is designated for employment should lie stagnant. So I hope it is very successful."

Chorley MP Lindsay Hoyle said: "This land has be earmarked for development for a long time.

"New jobs coming to the area are always welcome and I'm sure that the council has got it right in recommending approval, but hope it is sympathetic to the area."

Bluemantle are a property investment and development company based in Alderley Edge, Cheshire.

Other high profile projects they have managed nearby include Euxton Business Park and the former Horwich Loco works.

But many residents whose homes overlook the site, have objected to the proposals.

Howard Booth, 38, of Blackburn Road, said: "I think the council should ask for investment from the developers to replace the leisure facilities they are taking away. The land is used for walkers and families. They should build a small park or play area in return."

Mrs Avice Taylor, 71, whose property overlooks the site, said: "I object strongly. It is totally unacceptable in terms of scale, appearance and design bearing in mind the rural setting.

"It would also put even more traffic on Blackburn Road, which is already has congestion and safety problems."