Star Wars mogul George Lucas has scrapped plans to expand his moviemaking headquarters on farmland in California following complaints from local residents.

The legendary director was given the go ahead from local officials to build a new digital media production compound on the plot which has housed his Skywalker Ranch for three decades.

However, the move angered residents, who insisted the construction work would cause environmental damage and generate noise and traffic.

Lucas has now taken heed of his neighbors' ill feeling, and decided to build the facilities elsewhere.

A representative for Lucasfilm says, "We have several opportunities to build the production stages in communities that see us as a creative asset, not as an evil empire."
 
"The level of bitterness and anger expressed by the homeowners in Lucas Valley has convinced us that, even if we were to spend more time and acquire the necessary approvals, we would not be able to maintain a constructive relationship with our neighbors."