Campaigners have criticised plans to convert a Leigh landmark into flats.

New plans for the derelict Bell Hotel, in Leigh Hill, Leigh, could see the site transformed into 21 flats and accommodation/work unit.

The move comes just two months after proposals to convert the building into a 12 bedroom boutique-style hotel, with a block of 20 flats on adjoining land, were rejected by Southend council.

Carole Mulroney, of the Leigh Society, said: "To me this is planning by attrition.

"What we have to do is make a stand. We must object because our old letters won't be taken into account."

Residents fear the flats, rising to five storeys high, would dominate the skyline and lead to overdevelopment of the area.

Peter Dolby, chairman of Leigh Town Council, said he was disappointed the plans included no provision to keep the site as a hotel.

He added: "To me there's insignificant change between the plans we are looking at now and the previous plans.

"The town council notes that the amended proposals are similar to the originals and also notes that the Bell Hotel is to be refurbished into flats and a live/work studio rather than as a converted boutique hotel."

The plans were unanimously rejected by Leigh Town Council, who will pass their recommendations to Southend council.