A DECISION on the planned 47-home residential redevelopment of a former factory in West Craven has once again been delayed.

Councillors agreed to defer a decision on plans for Brook Shed in New Road, Earby, for a second time after hearing discussions were ongoing with the developer about a hoped for roundabout at the junction where New Road meets Victoria Road and the A56.

There were also unresolved issues with the use of the factory's former Engine House and a response from the Environment agency that confused both the planning manager and the committee chair.

Planning manager Neil Watson told Tuesday's meeting of the West Craven Committee of Pendle Council that in correspondence with the council, the Environment Agency had referred to Victoria Clough, some distance away from the site.

And chair, Cllr David Whipp said an objection based on something that was 'on the other side of Earby' had left him 'scratching his head'.

Cllr Whipp told the meeting at Salterforth Village Hall he did not think there was any danger in the developer going to appeal following a further delay in getting a decision on the basis of non -determination within the expected time.

He added he had been contacted by a nearby resident about nesting swifts in the Engine House and that was a habitat they did not want to lose.

Developers, Gleeson, propose the demolition of the factory chimney, and part of the former weaving shed, and the building of eight four bedroom detached houses, seven three bedroom detached houses, 30 three bedroom semi-detached houses and two two bedroom semi-detached houses.

The scheme also proposes the retention of the engine house for 'community use' but costs associated with the development has meant it would not be financially viable to retain the factory chimney.

The site is within the Earby Conservation Area and while the demolition of the chimney and remaining walls would mean the loss of a heritage asset, there would be benefit in the new homes.

No affordable homes will be included as the developer has demonstrated that it would 'unacceptably impact on the viability of the development'.

Both Cllr Whipp and Mr Watson said the scheme should return to committee for a decision and it not be deferred for officer approval.

Cllr Whipp added: "My preference would be to retain the engine house; I think it would be a loss to the industrial heritage if it was to go, but I do accept it is a balance."