PLANS for a £300,000 rural youth centre to help occupy youngsters have been rejected due to local objections.

An application to build the centre on Broomheath Plantation in Bruen Staple-ford was rejected by Chester City Council after it was notified about concerns over the size and location of the building.

However, applicant Simon Harding, who owns the plantation, is planning to re-submit the application with some alterations.

Residents wrote to the city council, along with Tarvin Parish Council, to express concern about the size of the building, access and change of use.

In its objection the parish council said: 'The activities proposed include considerable commercial use - retailing is mentioned and wholesaling implied. At the present time there is no functional need in the area for the proposed business.

'Access to the proposed complex is at a T junction, on a bend, and at a point where the lane narrows. The lane is already used as an alternative route into Chester.

'Extra traffic generated by the proposal would create major highways problems.'

Mr Harding, who lives with his wife and two children in Northwich, said: 'We are meeting with a planning officer on June 15 to discuss any changes.

'The building would not be in an open field but a clearing that is surrounded by trees.

'We will also talk about rescaling it and removing a hedge. I am still hopeful.'

The plan was to build a visitors' centre for use by youth groups, scouts and schools.

It would provide an outdoor base to camp, play and learn, while surrounded by growing trees and countryside.

If successful, Mr Harding plans to plough £300,000 of cash into the project which he received from health insurance after nearly dying twice from cancer.

The second tumour he developed was in his brain and along his ear canal.

He is currently in the process of having a bionic ear fitted so his hearing will be restored.

He added: 'After going through all this I have developed a huge sense of optimism, so fingers crossed we can resolve this.'