VILLAGE residents today expressed concern over plans for a £750,000 golf academy and driving range.

Steven Potts, of Hollins Farm, Cliviger, wants to transform farmland between Red Lees Road and the River Brun, in the village, into a hi-tech centre for the sport.

Locals fear the developer has submitted an "unviable" planning application in order to change the land's classification to allow permission in the future for a housing development.

They have sent a 450-signature petition and 150 letters of objection to planning chiefs at Burnley Council.

Today Mr Potts, 49, said he was aware that residents living close to the proposed development were against it, but did not want to comment on the claims.

He said the complex would be targeted at schools and colleges, and hoped it would help develop all young golfers in the area. His wife's family has owned the land since the 1940s.

Ken Walsh, a Red Lees Road resident, said: "There is concern regarding traffic problems because Red Lees Road is very narrow and in a rural area. We have far too many cars and heavy goods vehicles using it, making this a very dangerous area."

Suzanne Tattersall, who lives with her partner Dave Johnson and three young children, said a floodlit driving range would cause light pollution and shine into their home.

She added: "I can't see the golf driving range being profitable as there are so many golf courses in the area already. The countryside is a national asset and we should protect greenbelt areas from urban sprawl."

The objections have been backed by Burnley MP Kitty Ussher, who sent a letter to Burnley Council opposing the scheme.

She said: "I believe Burnley already has adequate golfing amenities, one of which is publicly funded, and I do not believe it would be beneficial for the town."

Mr Potts claimed the findings of a questionnaire in which villagers were asked what developments they would like to see in the village formed the basis of his planning application, which has cost £27,000.

He said the findings, compiled by Cliviger Parish Council, were turned into an action plan which included improvements to sports and leisure facilities.

Cliviger Parish Council says this is not the case.

The plans are due to go before Burnley planning committee on February 2.