A decision on whether to allow new homes to be built in Blackpool has been delayed amid fears construction work could damage historic cottages.
Newfield Construction Ltd wants to build eight houses on land surrounded by Fishers Lane, Common Edge Road and Ecclesgate Road in Marton.
But owners of two Grade II listed cottages on Fishers Lane, which date back 300 years, claim piling work to build the new properties could harm their homes.
Blackpool Council’s planning committee voted to defer a decision on whether to grant the scheme so they could get expert advice.
Judith Brisco, who jointly owns one of the cottages with her sister Louise,said: “If the committee allows these properties to be built, any piling of that area will mean the vibrations are going to be felt under my cottage.
“My concern is not only will my cottage be destroyed, and it has been there 300 years, but I am also concerned about the possibility of flooding if these properties are built.”
She added: “I am passionate about my property and I am concerned my cottage will disappear. If you allow this to go ahead you will be destroying some heritage.”
The committee had been recommended to approve the application by planning officers.
A report to the committee says: “It is likely the dwellings would require piled foundations.” It adds: “While this may have some impact on the listed buildings in terms of structural movement, I would expect any proven damage to be put right by the developer.”
With regard to drainage and flooding, the report says: “There are numerous open watercourse features located within close proximity forming a network of land drains.”
But councillors expressed concern over the proposals.
Coun Allan Matthews said: “These cottages are of high heritage interest in this area and we should go to great lengths to keep them there for another 300 years.”
Coun Adrian Hutton said: “We are all concerned about the impact on 300-year-old properties. I am concerned that if they are doing piling, that it might have an impact on these properties and it is not retrievable.”
In a design statement accompanying the application, Newfield Jones says the proposed homes have been positioned “to protect the aspect view across the site of the existing listed cottages on Fishers Lane.”