PLANS to convert an old school to 13 residential apartments have been approved despite concerns about privacy from neighbouring properties.

After speaking over their allotted time the disgruntled residents were nearly thrown out of a meeting when they continued to speak against the proposal.

The planning committee approved the application to convert The Old School, which is located in the Chapelfield area of Radcliffe, subject to conditions.

One dwelling must be affordable and the developer will have to contribute more than £18,000 towards recreation provisions.

The proposal was amended to include non-opening obscure glazing to prevent direct overlooking overlooking into nearby properties.

But residents of Rossall Avenue were not satisfied as some windows on the ground floor, which is 30 feet away from one property, would not be obscured.

Speaking against the application, Rodney Kay tried to speak beyond his allocated three minutes.

His neighbour, Tracey Gartley, who claims to be worse affected by the issue, tried to raise these objections at the meeting but was told members of the public could no longer speak.

She told the Bury Times: "They might as well be sat at my dinner table. They might as well be sleeping in my bed. I'm just disgusted that all they thought about is themselves."

When he and other Rossall Avenue residents raised further points security told them they would have to leave if they continued.

The 19th century building was used as an antiques centre until recently.