PLANS to install a zebra crossing and a no parking zone in a village have sparked anger.

Lancashire County Council has unveiled proposals to introduce the measures between two bus stops in Market Street, Shawforth.

But the scheme, which would include zig-zag road markings for 20metres on each side of the crossing, has been strongly criticised by a ward councillor and residents.

They are objecting on the grounds it would be too near the bus stops and would be better located near St John and St Michael Primary School.

Other objections include the impact on local businesses, including a chip shop, and Shaw-forth Methodist Church and parking problems for residents in Market Street.

However the county council said there was already a school crossing patrol in operation in Moss Side Street, there is potential for parking on Quarry Street and the methodist church has recently been granted planning permission to use land at the rear of the building for parking.

Ward Coun Thomas Aldred said: “The town council did look at the possibility of putting a zebra crossing in that area a couple of years back but we soon saw that it was unsuitable for safety and spatial reasons.

“The county council is now revisiting that idea but the road layout is still not suitable.

“There is a sharp bend on one end of the road and there is simply not enough room between the bus stops and where the proposed site is.

“You cannot move the bus stops either.”

The plans have been recommeded for refusal at the Lancashier Local Rossendale meeting next Monday at the Old Fire Station, Burnley Road, Rawtenstall.

A report to the committee will state: “In light of this information it is recommended that the objections are upheld and the proposal to construct a crossing be withdrawn.”