COUNCIL bosses have become embroiled in a row with a bank after refusing it permission to build a wheelchair-friendly entrance.

Lloyd’s Bank wanted to refurbish its store in Church Street, Blackburn, by moving the steps to allow a ramp to be built to entrance, and increase the width of the porch.

But council planners rejected the application, claiming it would damage the “architectural and historic merit” of the listed building and be a health and safety hazard for pedestrians.

Lloyd’s declined to comment yesterday, but in a letter to customers it said the decision was “regrettable”. It is expected to appeal.

A town hall spokesman said: “Firstly the proposed alterations would have seriously eroded the architectural and historic merit of the premises, which has listed building status.

"Secondly, the proposed alterations to the entrance would have substantially narrowed the public footpath, compromising the movement and safety of pedes-trians.”

Richard Prest, of Blackburn Civic Society, said the building was one of Blackburn’s finest.

He said: “There are provisions within the Disability Discrimination Act for a bit of discretion with listed buildings, so it seems the bank is making a bit of a fuss about this.

“Normally a good archi-tect will find a way around it.”

The council could help by changing the level of the pavement outside the bank, he added.

In December Lloyds will be closing its Lord Street West branch to move into the Church Street base.