Planning inspectors have overturned Ribble Valley BC's decision to block a local housing project – a move some experts believe could happen more regularly under ministers' controversial plans for a 'presumption' in favour of 'sustainable development'.

The Planning Inspectorate said there were no reasons to stop the proposed 80-home plan in the Lancashire town of Whalley despite the council's objection based on deep-rooted opposition towards extra traffic from residents and the Wildlife Trust.