PLANS to build more than 120 homes have been shelved after complaints the site could 'destroy' nature in the area and cause traffic issues.

An application was submitted to Hyndburn Council earlier this year to build 122 homes at land off Broad Oak Road and Manchester Road between Accrington and Baxenden.

However plans for the Devine Fisheries site have now been withdrawn after more than 20 complaints were submitted by residents against the homes.

Planning agents Rural Futures (North West) Ltd, who submitted plans with applicant Windmill Rise SPV Ltd confirmed the plans had been withdrawn and further investigation work will be done into the site.

Concerns raised included whether a development this size was needed, the stress it would cause to existing residents, worries wildlife would be destroyed and traffic problems.

A letter of objection from Woodside Close residents Mr and Mrs Gilmore said: "We feel there would be significant impact to this area which is rich in wildlife.

"This would lead to a destruction in their natural habitat."

Frances McKenna, from Manchester Road, said: "It is already an issue crossing Manchester Road at present with a high volume of traffic.

"With this extra housing development traffic will be at an all time high causing danger to pedestrians."

The site was historically part of the Broad Oak Printworks and features two remaining reservoirs used for fisheries, as well as two redundant landfill sites.

The proposals included 50 three bed homes homes, 43 four bed homes and 29 properties available under affordable housing provisions.

A total of 244 car parking spaces would have been created by the plans, which was another concern of residents.

Mr P Holden from Woodfield Avenue, said: "Our area is filled to the brim with houses and to lose such a valuable amenity for local people will be a very unpopular move.

"Destroying it when there are numerous houses in the area either empty or not selling would indeed be irresponsible."

Mr A Outen from Bamford Crescent said: "This would cause residents a lot of stress and worry.

"It would turn Bamford Crescent, which at the moment is a very respectful and quiet place to live, into a very undesirable, devalued place to live."

Planning agent Rural Futures said more time is needed for them to work on the plans.

A spokesman said: "We need to do some further coal workings investigation to satisfy coal authority, plus additional details for highways on internal layout.

"It's nothing too onerous but we needed additional time to get coal surveys completed."