A DERELICT site looks set to be redeveloped as a care home despite objections from residents.

Plans for a 60-bed care home at land off Lowthwaite Drive, Nelson, were turned down by Pendle councillors last year after neighbours packed the council chamber to complain the home would create a dangerous road junction.

But the developer, Request Move Ltd, has appealed against that decision and submitted new proposals, this time for a 40-bed unit.

Under the outline plans, the site would be used as a continuing care home for elderly people, but residents are also concerned the building could instead be used for care for younger people.

They have gathered a petition of more than 248 signatures against the plan, while 20 more people have written to the council individually.

Highways officers have not objected to the plan, but residents say the proposed entrance road would create more dangers at a junction where accidents have happened in the past.

But Pendle Council planning officer Stan Healey has recommended that the proposals be approved, saying that there would be good visibility at the junction, and the developer has complied with all the criteria for the building.

Coun Tonia Barton said: "Reducing it from 60 to 40 beds isn't going to make much difference and the residents' concerns are still the same."