MEMBERS of Ulverston Town Council criticised the lack of progress on plans to develop a historic landmark in the town.

Charles Church Lancashire, a subsidiary of Persimmon Homes, has submitted plans to convert the Stone Cross Mansion into 19 apartments and build 45 new homes in its grounds to South Lakeland District Council.

However, plans to develop the Grade II listed building were criticised at a meeting of Ulverston Town Council last night who voted to recommend the rejection of the project.

Criticism was levelled against the development for a lack of affordable homes.

Councillor Phil Lister said: "They can section away one corner of this development and put in a couple of terraces of affordable homes for families who desperately, desperately need it."

Councillor Colin Pickthall added: "It's a big development. There is no reason why they couldn't have dedicated so called affordable houses.

"Everything is five bedrooms here as far as I can see."

The project to develop Stone Cross Mansion has seen the applicant withdraw previous applications and reduce the capacity of the design.

The development could go before SLDC's planning committee as soon as April 28.

For more reaction, see tomorrow's Evening Mail.