AN endangered amphibian could scupper plans for a controversial 1,100 housing estate plan in Westhoughton.

Campaigners believe the site of the development at Lee Hall is a habitat for the great crested newt, which is a protected species.

They also claim that badgers and bats are on the land.

They want Bolton's planning chiefs to investigate whether the presence of wildlife could be a reason to turn down the planning application.

The plan is due to be considered by Bolton councillors on April 22.

But Westhoughton Labour Cllr David Chadwick said at last night's Bolton Council meeting that the report which is presented to planning control sub committee councillors should assess the impact on wildlife.

Throughout the country, many major developments have been refused planning permission because of the presence of the great crested newt.

Cllr Chadwick said the report should also consider the extra 2,000 car journeys a day which the development would bring to Westhoughton's 100-year-old homes.

Cllr Jack Foster, planning and environment committee chairman, said the report would consider, traffic impact, whether the development fits in with the unitary development plan for the area, the wildlife impact and other planning matters.

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