PLANS to improve accessibility for disabled people and install new electric vehicle charging points at a medical centre have been thrown out by the council.

Town hall planners have refused permission to form a pedestrian access ramp, two disability parking spaces and three electric vehicle charging points at Newlands House.

Trees and hedging would have to be removed to enable the proposal as well as part of a lawned area.

A new door opening would have also been created as part of the plan.

The site in Chorley New Road, which is currently in use as a private clinic, is considered to contribute "heavily" to the character of the area, according to planning officers.

They said: "Officers consider that the sum of the works would impact detrimentally on the setting and character and appearance of this characterful, historic house.

"In particular, officers cannot support the formation of a new opening in the side elevation which fronts Chorley New Road."