PEOPLE living near an unspoiled moorland beauty spot say plans for a stable would set a dangerous precedent for developing the land.

Landowner John Mercer is appealing against Bolton Council's decision to reject his bid to build a stable for five horses on the former quarry site at Wallsuches conservation area, Horwich.

But neighbours fear the stable could be turned into a home and say the greenbelt should be protected from "creeping urbanisation".

Maureen Eades, of nearby Georges Lane, spoke at a public hearing at the Albert Halls, in Bolton, on behalf of the objectors.

She said: "We are concerned about potential change of use' applications if the building is allowed to proceed.

"It is well-known that one of Mr Mercer's earlier applications regarding this land was to erect a bungalow and, further, that he has recently made a successful application to change stables to residential use on land he owns at Blackrod."

Mrs Eades said the area was used by families, dog walkers, Brownies, schools and youth groups from across Bolton.

However, Mr Mercer said the land was worthless if not used for grazing horses.

He said: "We rented it out to somebody to do paintballing but that was objected to. There isn't anything you can do without upsetting the neighbours."

Architect George Aldridge, in Mr Mercer's defence, said an application for a fishing centre and cafe within the same area had been approved and the stable should be considered a reasonable proposition.

The council originally refused the application on the grounds of no justification for such large stables, which would fail to preserve the area's character.

Planning inspector Gyllian Grindey will deliver a written ruling on the appeal after a site visit.