A DISUSED landfill site in Adlington could soon be filled and landscaped as a car park if planning bosses agree.

The application to fill an ash pit on a two-and-a-half acre site on Huyton Road has been made to Bolton Metro Council by Adlington-based Houghton house Ltd, owned by Ian Ashburn.

But one resident Gary Hardman, who lives in Blackrod, near the site, is concerned the landfill could cause environmental problems and traffic congestion.

"My main concern is what are they going to fill it with. Is it industrial waste, household waste, building rubble?" said Mr Hardman.

But a spokesman for Bolton Council said the site would be filled with inert material such as bricks and rubble.

Mr Hardman said the site is on the banks of the River Douglas. He said: "If there are any leaks fish could be killed by the millions."

And he complained: "Last time they were here digging it out they blocked the entrance to our house off one day. If they do that again and we have a fire how are the fire brigade going to get through?"

His concerns are shared by Chorley Borough Council which has objected to the proposal.

Mike Gee, the council's development control manager, said the council felt the parking facilities would not be appropriate in a green belt area. The proposal would have an "unacceptable impact" on the character and appearance of the area, he said. The council had also objected to the plans because of traffic implications and because it was sited within a wildlife corridor.

Despite repeated attempts to contact him, Mr Ashburn was unavailable to comment.