THE Government says that plans for a controversial housing scheme would cause too much harm to a nearby listed building — but work on the site has already begun.

The Planning Inspectorate has dismissed an appeal by Westchurch Homes against Bolton Council’s decision to reject proposals to build 13 homes at Lostock House Farm last December.

However, the developer has since angered residents by tearing down a farmhouse and two Victorian barns on the site before submitting a new planning application.

Despite the applicant’s actions being described as ‘shameful’ by councillors, those later plans were approved in April.

Now, the Government has backed the council’s original decision — regardless of the demolition work — because of the negative impact on the grade two listed Gatehouse which still stands to the rear of the site.

Planning inspector Geoff Underwood said: “While the loss of both the medieval and 1563 Lostock Halls, together with the recent demolition of the Farmhouse and farm buildings within the appeal site, have eroded the listed building’s visual association with surrounding buildings, there remains a historical relationship with their former sites.” He added: “On balance, in giving considerable importance and weight to the harm identified I do not consider that the harm would be outweighed by the benefits of the scheme.”

Neighbour Andrew Roberts said: “The Planning Inspectorate is absolutely correct in its investigation, and it reiterates what I have been trying to prevent for the last couple of years.

“However, despite the damage to the setting of the listed building that will be caused by Westchurch Homes’ later application, Bolton Council has still allowed it to go ahead.

“A dense housing estate build of modern materials right next to a nearly 450 year old building is going to look ridiculous, Westchurch Homes are trying to squeeze every penny out of the site with little regard towards Bolton’s heritage.”

He added that, since work began on the site, residents have had their power and phone lines cut off and that builders’ machinery has been operated as early as 5.30am.

When contacted by The Bolton News, Westchurch Homes declined to comment.

The council says that the Government’s decision would have no impact on April’s planning committee decision or the work ongoing at the site.

A spokesman added: “The planning inspectorate’s decision is in accordance with the council’s planning committee’s decision to refuse the original application. Planning permission has subsequently been granted and if residents have any concerns regarding work currently taking place they should contact us.”