GRAND Designs guru Kevin McCloud was told he ‘has a lot to answer for’, as councillors delayed their decision on whether a modern development can be built.

Plans to demolish a boarding kennels and former agricultural buildings to make way for two homes were deferred for the second time by Bolton Council’s planning committee yesterday.

Bromley Cross councillor Norman Critchley warned that the plot at Little Stanrose Farm, Egerton, could look like a ‘big mirror’ dominating the skyline.

Cllr Bob Allen joked that the Channel 4 presenter’s influence was behind the glass-fronted home design, and suggested giving the applicant more time to redraw their plans.

An artist’s impression shows the houses would have stone walls and large south-facing glass windows.

Cllr Zoe Kirk-Robinson added: “This is going to have a big impact on neighbours and anyone who can see the homes’ large reflective surfaces.”

Labour’s Cllr Nick Peel recommended that the plans were approved, saying the homes would have less impact on the green belt than its current use.

He also dismissed Cllr Critchley’s claim that the kennels are the only such business in the borough.

The town hall committee heard that the lease on the kennels was due to expire next year and that it will close regardless of this housing application.

The applicant, Gayle Taylor, said that her plans were ‘carefully designed to be sensitive to the green belt’ after consultation with council officers.