A VACANT store could be brought back to use as a coffee shop.

A planning application has been lodged with Blackburn with Darwen Council to convert the former clothing store in unit two of 12-16 Oswald Street, Blackburn, into a coffee shop.

A design and access statement compiled by architectural firm Compass states: “The site is situated on the junction of Randal Street and Oswald Street adjacent to a row of commercial properties and residential properties to the rear.

“The premises in question is in a prominent location just outside the ‘Whalley Range Bazaar’ fronting onto Randal Street with a high increase of foot traffic passing through.

“The premises have a blend of mixed used development in the vicinity, there are commercial shops/units along the stretch of Randal Street.

“The application premises is currently vacant as was previously occupied by a retail clothing outlet but the use has now ceased and the applicants are looking for fresh impetus to bring the unit back into a sustainable use."

As per the application, there would be no alterations to the outside of the building should planning permission be granted by committee members.

The statement adds: “The proposal includes the formation of a coffee shop which will serve the adjoining business users and their customers and also allow the general public to use this proposed entity.

“The layout of the ground floor is positioned as such that it faces the juxtaposition of Randal Street.

"The layout of the shop floor area is linear and spatial and will be accessed from Randal Street. The rear of the proposed premises will be dedicated to a small preparation area and a toilet to serve the general public.”