A 'TIRED and redundant' former church could be finally set to be given a new lease of life as modern flats after a decade of uncertainty.

Plans have been submitted to Hyndburn Council to convert the former Christian Institute in Oswaldtwistle into four two-bedroom flats.

Previously proposals had been approved to convert the site into houses but the applicant did not follow through with the plans.

Architect Nuala Roarty, working on the plans with NU Architects on behalf of applicant Colin Lord from Thomas Street, Oswaldtwistle, said the work would benefit the area.

She said: "We just think it will enhance the street scene.

"The building is tired and redundant at the moment and it's not good for the area.

"The new apartments would be an asset and uplift the street.

"It would be a sustainable development and bring in high quality apartments."

The two bedroom apartments would be aimed at young couples and professionals and four parking spaces would be created.

As part of the work a new porch entrance would be added at the site and the properties would be of a 'good size'.

Lancashire County Council has submitted a response stating they 'wish to raise an objection' in regards to the parking provisions.

However NU Architects said they are talking to the highways staff about resolving the issues.

County council staff also said should concerns be addressed the application 'may be looked on favourably'.

In 2006 the Christian Institute sold the original site of the church to move to a new base in Union Road.

In 2008 developers were granted conditional approval to demolish the unused church to build four three-bedroom houses, but the work never materialised.

It was the same story again in September 2013 when a different applicant working with agent NU Architects were granted permission for the site.

They also wanted to erect four three bed terraced houses with four car parking spaces and a communal shed, but the application lapsed.

Cllr Peter Britcliffe, who represents the area on Hyndburn Council and Lancashire County Council, said the plans have potential to benefit the area.

He said: "Providing the plans are in order and of a high quality it would be good to see an unused building brought back to life.

"It has been vacant for a good few years now.

"It is something that would prevent the building becoming extremely derelict and an eyesore."