A WALL behind a new housing development which can be “seen from the moon”, according to neighbours, could soon become a permanent fixture.

The 1.5-metre wall backing onto a farm was built when construction of the 12 five-bedroom houses started, but it did not feature in the original plans.

Now the retaining wall on the edge of the Westhoughton development could stay if councillors pass new plans this week.

Cllr Christine Wild, who described the wall as “incongruous”, asked for the application to be discussed by the planning committee on Thursday.

The Westhoughton councillor is hoping the developer will be “sensible” and put greenery or cladding on the walls.

She said: "It's been a bit of an issue with residents. We try to resolve [the issues] all amicably".

The precise plans will be revealed at the committee but its current appearance is "out of character" with the "urban fringe location", according to a council report.

A total of nine houses at “Pennine View” have been sold by Oak Tree Developments so far.

Managing director David Lloyd said the landscaping scheme for the gated housing development in Chorley Road has been agreed.

The company is looking at planting hedgerows and trees to cover the contentious wall at the northern boundary.