FURTHER debate on controversial blueprints to redevelop a quiet corner of Culcheth was set to take place behind closed doors last night, Wednesday.

Councillors and planning bosses are believed to have been drawing up a strategy in advance of two public inquires, both centring on land off Hob Hey Lane and Wigshaw Lane.

In a tortuous planning process, developers Redrow have seen outline plans and proposals for 39 homes rejected by Warrington's development control committee.

Opponents including the horse riding community, cyclists, neighbours and councillors, have bombarded the council with hundreds of protest e-mails and letters, mainly centring on a contentious roundabout near an entrance to Culcheth Linear Park.

For confidentiality reasons, the committee met last night in secret to discuss their inquiry tactics.