PLANS to demolish a row of cottages and build a three-storey apartment block in Lostock have been thrown out by planners.

Bolton Council's planning committee voted unanimously to reject developer Castlecrest's application to build the flats at Lower Austins, claiming it would be an "over-intensive" use of the site.

Letters were received from four residents complaining that the flats would lead to lack of light and privacy. They also feared the flats would cause parking problems and more noise.

The councillors' decision came despite planning officers recommending that the plan be approved.

Principle planning officer Jon Berry had told the committee: "The redevelopment is considered to be acceptable on the basis that the cottages have in the main stood derelict and vacant for a considerable period of time."