PLANS to build a convenience store on a busy road have sparked objections from residents.

Greenmount News wants to expand its shop in Brandlesholme Road by knocking through the house next door to create a mini-supermarket.

The owners have launched a petition to get locals on board, but some residents fear the move would cause an increase in traffic and parking on the busy main road.

Maria Maclean, who lives in Brandlesholme Road, said: “The council has already spent a large amount of money on traffic calming schemes along that road.

“Unacceptable levels of parking exist during business hours, but this would be compounded not only for residents but for potential customers.”

A planning application was submitted to Bury Council but was pulled at the last minute when the owners decided to revise the proposals and gather support.

Newsagent boss, Christopher Smith, said: “As an existing newsagent serving customers for the last 20 years, we have an existing customer base who are constantly requesting new lines in store.

“We hope to achieve a better quality service for the residents of the area.”

A council spokesman said: “The application for the extension to the shop was withdrawn by the applicant on January 20.

“Should a new application be submitted the residents who expressed concern about the earlier proposal would be notified as a matter of course.”