PLANS to build three bungalows on the outskirts of Cowling involving the further 'translocation' of an ancient hedge have been put on ice to allow councillors to visit the site.

Objectors to the proposed properties immediately next to and identical to three other newly built bungalows off Dick Lane urged Craven District Councils Planning Committee to reject or at least visit the site before coming to a decision.

Philip Boocock, chairman of Cowling Parish Council said the uprooting and re-planting of part of the hedgerow for the first three bungalows had been a disaster - despite an ecologists report which put it at 78 percent successful.

"It has been a disaster. Everything was ripped out of the ground and dumped at the side before being eventually planted again," he said.

Cllr Boocock added the parish council also objected in terms of it being a sustainable development and questioned the need for such properties in Cowling.

Susan Middleton, for objectors, said councillors needed to see the translocated hedge and compare it to what was still there.

"I ask you to say no or to defer a decision until you have been out and looked at the consequences of ripping up an ancient hedgerow," she said.

Richard Leach, agent for the previous developer and current applicant, Hugh Broughton, said great care had been taken when moving the hedge and added it was a long term project that needed time.

He added that the end proposed property had been situated in such a way which effectively ended the further spread of the development.

Ward councillor, Bill Mercer, said he supported objections from residents and the parish council and added moving of the hedge had been the main point of contention.

"I would like you not to make a rash decision today, but defer it and come out and revisit the site to see it before and after," he said.

Cllr Chris Harbron, who moved the objectors' wish for a site visit, said he was unhappy that the committee had previously been promised a hundred per cent success rate with the uprooting and replanting of a section of hedge.

He also questioned how the ecologist could come up with such an exact percentage.

The outline application was recommended for approval by planning officers.

The original scheme for three bungalows was refused by councillors, against the advice of officers, but allowed on appeal to the Planning Inspectorate.