THE PROPOSED construction of 150 houses could destroy a wildlife spot, a residents’ group has warned.

It has emerged that property developer Taylor Wimpey harbours ambitions to build the family homes on land east of Holcombe Road, Haslingden.

On the idyllic Haslingden Grane, the site is home to an abundance of wildlife including deer, newts, bats, frogs and toads.

Michael Murray, chairman of Grane Residents’ Association warned the plans would lead to the destruction of the Grane, as well as causing traffic problems.

Mr Murray, whose house on Grane Road backs on to the planned housing development, said: “We have sent an 80 page document to the planning department which outlines the things Grane residents object to.

“The land has been subject to attempts to develop it for 28 years for industrial and housing purposes.

“Some of this latest housing development will back right on to our back garden and spoil the view we share.

“This will lead to the destruction of the Grane.”

Mr Murray said the residents’ association has sent an objection letter to Rossendale Council.

He added: “The traffic on Grane Road is already horrendous and if you build another 150 houses, that’s 300 more cars.

“It will add to the volume of the traffic and create havoc.”

Eric Mizon, 91, who has lived on Grane Road since 1953, also said he was strongly opposed to the development.

He said: “The houses will lead to hundreds more cars.

"The land is also very swampy and building more houses could cause problems with flooding.”

But Taylor Wimpey said on their website that the development would be of high quality and include a mix of two, three and four-bedroom homes.

The developer added: "Development here provides an opportunity to create an attractive introduction to the town.

"The size of the site allows for a mix of properties to be provided which will cater for the needs of young couples, families of all sizes and older people who wish to remain in the town."

The firm, who have recently held a community engagement event, plan to submit a planning application in the summer.