A CAFÉ could soon replace an ‘eyesore’ in Burnley town centre.

Mr and Mrs Musso applied to Burnley Council to change the use of the Empire Theatre entrance on 118 St James Street to create a café and bar and then rebuild the front to have a new shop front.

The building has been vacant since it closed as a Gala bingo hall in 1995.

SACC Architects published a report in their heritage statement and claimed that after ‘decades of being a derelict and neglected which has resulted to decay and roof structure failure, vandalism, dry rot and water penetration.

“The building was made weather tight following external works carried out however, the interior remains in a very poor condition.

“The proposals seek to bring this building back to life by carrying out works to upgrade roof, make safe the external elevations - both front and rear elevations.

“The works will include repairs, restoration where applicable that will collectively preserve and enhance the building, and ensure its long term use and viability.”

The scheme was given the green light with conditions including the use of the premises as a bar/cafe shall cease on or before ten years from the date of the completed external and internal works.

The Theatres Trust and Burnley Empire Theatre Trust registered objections against the plans as they are still trying to revitalise the Empire Theatre and that the premises could be a link to the Theatre.

In a letter to planners, the Theatres Trust wrote ‘a temporary permission is acceptable in principle so as to safeguard the building for beneficial cultural uses in the long term.

“This is particularly important in light of the forthcoming Burnley Town Centre Masterplan, for which we see the Empire Theatre as representing a unique and significant opportunity to contribute to the town’s economy and leisure offer and act as a catalyst for further town centre growth and to improve the social and cultural wellbeing of the local community.

“There remains a viable proposition for re-use of the Empire as a cultural venue for which partnership discussions are ongoing.”

Meanwhile, Cllr Saeed Chaudhary, who represents the Daneshouse with Stoneyholme ward, believes the scheme could benefit the area.

He said: “It should bring more people to the area as a café. It would be good to see something on there as it is in a state of disrepair and once it is up and running will be brilliant for the area.

“The rest of the properties surrounding them are open and that one looks like an eyesore.

“It will improve the appearance of the area in the short-term."