Controversial plans to open a new children's nursery in Thornton are PASSED

Planners at Wyre Council granted Antony Bramhall permission to convert 246 Fleetwood Road North despite objections from residents, a councillor, and the Tory MP Paul Maynard.

However, a raft of letters backing the plans were also lodged with the council, whose delegated report said 20 objections were received by planners, compared to 18 letters of support.

The scheme is ‘acceptable in principle in this location’, papers read, and there would ‘not be unacceptable harm to neighbouring amenity, visual amenity, or highway safety’.

In his letter, Mr Maynard, the MP for Blackpool North and Cleveleys, said he met with residents who live near the home, and said he shared their concerns the plans could ‘advertently impact on their lives’.

He wrote: “I tend to agree it is unreasonable that residents of [nearby] Chestnut Gardens will be subject ... to the noise and light pollution emitted from vehicles exiting the day nursery between 7.30am and 6.30pm.”

Other concerns highlighted by the objections included road safety, and a perceived lack of need.

But those backing the plans said the new nursery is in a good location to meet an increased demand for childcare, on a good route for public transport, and in a good area for parking.

The council’s roads department also did not object, saying the nursery ‘will not have a significant impact’ on road safety or capacity in the ‘immediate vicinity’ of the site, documents added.