A 'CONTROVERSIAL' planning application for a house in Prestwich was delayed in order to schedule a site visit.

Bury Council’s planning committee voted unanimously in favour of arranging a visit to the land in question at the end of Watkins Drive.

The application proposes a new single detached property with two detached garages – one single, one double – to the north of the house.

Around 20 residents attended a planning meeting at Bury town hall tonight, with spokeswoman Francesca Brecker making representations against the plans.

Ms Brecker said: “This is a controversial application which is strongly opposed by in excess of 20 residents.

“It is the site itself we have particular objection to.

“Our concerns include loss of privacy, drainage issues, the unknown impact of remaining tree roots, access and more.

“We think this development is really out of character for the estate.”

The site is a thin section of land to the north of Watkins Drive, bounded on all sides by properties. A total of 10 formal objections have been submitted in response to the proposals.

Ms Brecker added: “There is no other house on the estate with two garages, two separate driveways, and access from two sides.

“We are grateful you are going on a site visit so you can appreciate the objections.”

Ward councillors Alan Quinn and David Silbiger also spoke about the site, the latter saying: “While we appreciate the need for additional housing, we need to take into account the strength of the objections.

“Hopefully the revised plans can be mitigated and a stable way forward can be found for everybody.”

On the advice of the planning officer, the committee agreed 10 in favour none against to postpone decision making until the next planning meeting.

Councillor Catherine Preston proposed the site visit and her move was seconded by Councillor Jackie Harris.