A CONTROVERSIAL plan to convert a former town hall into a pub is set to be turned down by councillors.

Inns & Leisure Ltd wants to transform the former Barnoldswick Town Hall into a pub and restaurant with a conservatory extension.

But council planners are recommending Pendle Council's West Craven area committee refuses permission for the scheme when it meets on Tuesday.

Eight letters from local residents objecting to the plan on the grounds that it would cause traffic congestion and lead to disruption in a residential area have been sent to the council.

The town council also objects to the scheme which has been granted a drinks licence by magistrates subject to planning approval being granted. A report to the area committee says the county surveyor as concerned about access, particularly the problem of delivery vehicles blocking the narrow streets outside the town hall.

Councillors are recommended to refuse permission on the grounds that the proposed rear extension would look out of character with the town hall which is in a conservation area.

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