A CAMPAIGN is being launched this week to stop a block of three-storey flats being built next to a famous Nantwich landmark.

Sandy Summers, owner of the 16th Century Churche's Mansion, says she is appalled by a planning application to build the flats on the site of the former James Edwards petrol filling station.

Mrs Summers, who has just reopened the mansion as an antiques centre, has been joined in her battle by neighbour Dr Rick Appleton, who is sending a petition of protest to Crewe and Nantwich Borough Council, signed by 250 objectors.

Mrs Summers, who has brought the historic property back to life after it lay empty for three years, said: 'I fail to see how 15 flats in three-storey blocks can be allowed to go right next to the only Grade One listed building in Nantwich.

'Wherever I go in the country and say I am from Nantwich, the first thing anyone mentions is Churche's Mansion. There is no doubt it is a famous landmark and I am appalled that this kind of development is being contemplated.'

Dr Appleton, who has lived near to the Hospital Street mansion for nearly 40 years, said: 'As soon as I saw the planning application I felt so strongly about it that I decided I must do something to try to help to protect Churche's Mansion.

'I have personally collected 250 signatures from people who all live more or less within shouting distance of the mansion and who obviously share my concern.

'This type of development would be totally out of character here. Churche's Mansion lies on the main approach route to the town from the south and for visitors to see these type of three-storey flats right next to a magnificent building would do nothing for the town.'

Borough council planning officer Andrew Dobson said: 'At the moment there are two applications in, one for the rear of the filling station and one on the actual site. They are just not gelling and I will be looking for a higher standard of design.'

Mr Dobson said the application may not come before members of the council's development control panel until the New Year.