DETAILED plans have been revealed for the proposed transformation of a former Blackburn pub into a convenience store.

The Co-op, which has formally submitted an application to change the use of The Bull’s Head in Whalley New Road, has promised to keep the building’s historic features.

The plans for the now-closed pub have been submitted to Blackburn with Darwen Council for consideration.

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The pub has been shut for nearly two years but the Co-op plan to put it back into use by the end of the year if approval is given.

Within the application the company has said that external alterations will be kept to a ‘bare minimum’ with the aim of keeping the site’s current character.

Cllr Mohammed Khan, council leader, said that he was pleased more companies were choosing to invest in the town.

He said: “I think this is a great development for the area, I am delighted that the Co-op are wanting to take over this pub and put it to good use.

“I hope that it will create jobs in the area.

“I strongly welcome this development, it’s much better for things to be put to use than just standing there.”

The adjoining car park has served as ‘unofficial parking’ for commuters using the Ramsgreave and Wilpshire train station nearby.

Planning documents state that the existing car park is set to be re-surfaced and no parking restrictions have been proposed.

An internal modern glazed shopfront will be added to the entrance.with handrails has been proposed to ensure level and inclusive access to the shop and to the rear, a new 2.5m high service yard enclosure has been proposed.

A cash point will also be added on the front of the shop.The store is set to be developed in addition to the existing Brownhill shop.

A spokesman for the Co-op said: “We consider that the principal features of importance underpinning the building’s positive character are retained and that the proposal represents an extremely sensitive conversion.”