BAE Systems is in the process of flattening the Group One site in Buckshaw Village - labelled the final piece in the jigsaw for the expanding community.

But, like a scene from TV soap Coronation Street, the ambitious 53 hectare project could be stalled due to a 'healthy' population of bats.

Part of the Group One plans, which will become the jewel in the crown of Buckshaw Village with around 1,000 homes, offices and community facilities, will open up ancient woodland and biological heritage land for public use.

BAE has asked council planning chiefs if they can erect a bat house to protect the nocturnal creatures.

Richard Culmer, project manager at BAE Systems, said: "Our research revealed a bat roost in one of the former production buildings and as a responsible organisation, we are seeking to provide alternative accommodation for the mammals, before decomssioning this building.

"As such, we have submitted a planning application to establish a bat hut in the nearby woodland, which, if approved, will not only minimise disruption, but will provide a much better living environment for the bats."

A bat house is similar to a larger scale bird box which is accessed from underneath. The most common species of bats likely to be found in Buckshaw Wood are Pipistrelle and Daubenton's bats.