Bodies in the garage bid fails to impress

Lee Summers, 34, wanted to set up an undertakers' business at his semi-detached home, which would have involved bodies being stored in the garage under his house on Claypit Lane in Sowood, near Halifax, between Outlane and Stainland.

But planners at Calderdale Council turned down his request for

permission to convert his garage into a chapel of rest, where bodies could be stored in the days between leaving the mortuary and being taken to the funeral service.

It was deemed "unsuitable in a close residential area."

Mr Summers' plans upset his neighbours and six objected to Calderdale Council.

The 34-year-old has been an undertaker for several years and, in May set up Golcar Independent Funeral Director in Leymoor Road.

Mr Summers believes Sowood needs an undertaker.

Planning officers had recommended the proposals for approval subject to conditions.