A CAFE that has served commuters for almost 80 years could reopen later this year after being transformed.

The Cabin in Railway Road, Blackburn, was sited next to the railway station since 1939 before being demolished.

A formal planning application was submitted to and approved by Blackburn with Darwen Council last year.

Work started shortly afterwards to clear the site, which is set back from the road next to the taxi rank, but the project to construct the new building has not started.

It is understood that applicant Hearle Homes, which is based in Blackburn, is planning to start the project by the end of the year.

The original building was knocked down because it had become ‘dilapidated’.

When the cafe does reopen it will face competition for commuters from the Subway restaurant which is based within the railway station.

In a document submitted to the council last year, a spokesman for the applicant said: “The site as a whole offers a wonderful location in the centre of the town.

“The existing use is not to be amended simply a rebuild as the existing structure is dilapidated.

“The intention is to simply rebuild to provide a much better building.

“The building is designed to sit comfortably in the local setting with a contemporary feel.

“There is a clear need for a café in the area as the existing one is long established.

“The building is designed to site well within the existing built fabric and enhanced existing frontage, which it is hoped will provide a new and welcome addition to the area.”

When completed, the new building will have a glass frontage and include an indoor seating area and public toilet.

According to the conditions of the original approval, the applicant has until 2019 to complete the project or it will have to reapply for permission.

Work will only be allowed to take place from 8am to 6pm during the week and from 9am to 1pm on Saturdays.