A DATE has been set for a public inquiry after a house builder launched a legal battle when council bosses knocked back their plans to build 142 new homes in Barrow.

Oakmere Homes was denied planning permission last October after submitting an application to build 142 houses on land between Dalton Lane and Breast Mill Beck Road near to Furness General Hospital in Barrow.

The plans included a proposed new roundabout at the brow of the hill on Dalton Lane to provide access to the 12.5 hectare site.

Following months of wrangling, which saw 85 residents pen strongly-worded letters of objection to the council, the planning committee of Barrow Borough Council voted unanimously to block the move.

William Woodhouse, 79, has lived in The Gardens, Barrow, for 24 years.

Together with Glyn Cragg and Shaun McKenna, he helped to form the action group which fought against the development and was "elated" by the council's verdict.

He said at the time: "I think the whole campaign committee feels so relieved that Barrow Borough Council has provided a clear report which was reflected in the recommendation for the refusal of the plan."

Now Oakmere Homes has lodged an appeal and a Secretary of State-appointed inspector will hold a public inquiry at Barrow Town Hall on July 25 at 10am.

Members of the public are welcome to attend the hearing and may be given an opportunity to voice their opinions.