EX-FOOTBALLER Garry Flitcroft's proposals to extend a converted chapel will go before planning chiefs next week.

The former Premier League star has applied to build a three-storey extension to The Croft, in Harwood, in order to create a trio of new two-bedroom apartments.

Mr Flitcroft's agents RT design say there is a need for more apartments in the area and the extension will be an attractive addition to the building.

But objectors claim the proposed extension will be "ugly" and "not sympathetic" to its surroundings.

Resident Adam Robinson is among those opposing the plans.

He said: "We as residents have strong objections to the development, as we believe that the small benefit to the developer in terms of an additional three flats – and how far this would go to solving a supposed need for more short term rental housing in the area – would be far outweighed by the long term negative effects to long-standing residents, and to the safety of the road."

He continued: "The proposed extension may well look attractive to passers-by on the road, but it will be a large three-storey building which will impose greatly over the small two storey semi detached houses on one particular street, with all the windows of two of those storeys overlooking the bedrooms of those house."

He says the privacy of overlooked residents will be greatly compromised, adding that "the sheer height of the proposed new building will also block any natural light to the houses."

Mr Robinson also says residents find it "incredible" that approval of the scheme is being recommended, despite the fact there will be "minimal off-road parking" once the extension is complete.

He added: "The council planning officer is still recommending based on "unrestricted" parking in Longsight.

"This is already one of the busiest thoroughfares in Bolton, with cars parking on the pavements both sides to allow quarry lorries through, and the constant stream of cars past.

"Women with prams already have to walk into the road to get past and there is a primary school 100 yards away. The Highways Agency has already stated they do not support the application because of these dangers."

Mr Robinson continued: "It is only a matter of time before there is a serious accident around there – we need to be looking at improving the situation, not putting up property with no off road parking."

However Tony Lang, of RT Design, said that the extension would be an attractive addition to the building and that, by virtue of the stone and render finish, would be sympathetic to the area.

He added that the high level of interest in the apartments was evidence that the style of accommodation it would offer was much in demand in the area.

Bolton Council's planning will make a decision on the application when it meets at the town hall on Thursday at 2pm.