MORECAMBE and Lunesdale MP David Morris has raised concerns about 16 new homes planned for a north Lancashire village.

The two-storey dwellings planned for a one-hectare plot of farmland east of Arkholme's Methodist Church have so far prompted 31 letters of objection.

Residents have expressed worries about "unacceptable" overlooking; impact on the character of the conservation area; proximity to trees and hedgerows; the "busy, dangerous" B6254 road nearby; and potential flooding issues upstream.

Mr Morris has also raised concerns about extra traffic on "already dangerous" rural roads; changes to the "fabric" of the village; and pedestrian access to the new houses being "arguable unsafe".

Meanwhile, Arkholme with Cawood Parish Council has voiced objections about the housing density being too high, and the impact on neighbours living at The Sheiling close by.

The concerns are outlined in a report by Lancaster City Council planning officers, who are recommending councillors back the plans when they meet on Monday (December 10).

In their report to the planning and highways regulatory committee, officers say outline plans for 17 houses by applicant Edward Hayton were granted in January 2016, and the current plans relate simply to details such as layout, appearance and landscaping. Six of the 16 houses would be classed as affordable.

Officers state they are "understanding" of concerned neighbours at The Sheiling who "experience attractive views". A change of outlook is "inevitable" when a greenfield site becomes "a cluster of new dwellings", they say.

They acknowledge there is "strong resentment locally" about the scheme with some villagers considering the applicant has not done enough to allay their concerns. However, the officers say there have been "positive improvements" which seek to lessen the impact on residents at The Sheiling.

They say the number of homes has been reduced from 17 to 16, and their traditional designs are "appropriate" to Arkholme's conservation area, with slate roofs, local stone details, and timber windows and doors.

Distances between the proposed dwellings and existing properties at The Sheiling have also been increased to help prevent overlooking and overshadowing of neighbours.

Officers state in the report: "While there would be some harm to the conservation area, this is outweighed by the provision of new homes within the village." They also say concerns about drainage can be addressed through planning conditions.