AMBITIOUS plans for Burnley's first drive-thru fish and chip shop have been allowed – but only after provoking a bitter row over conservation of the Weavers’ Triangle.

Before it was even considered by the council's development control committee, the bid by Banny's for land off Trafalgar Street had provoked the ire of the Victorian Society.

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Heritage campaigners lamented the loss of the former Dexter Paints building and claimed its replacement would cause ‘substantial harm’ to the character and setting of the Canalside Conservation Area.

This was supported by a joint letter from Burnley Civic Trust, Burnley Historical Society and the Weavers’ Triangle Trust, condemning the drive-thru’s design as ‘ordinary when it should be outstanding’.

Coun Cosima Towneley, a committee member, also questioned the merits of the ‘70s building’ and how it would fit in with the rest of the Weavers' Triangle.

She added: “I do not believe that Banny’s would have that kind of building at Boundary Mill so why should we have it in Burnley?”

Coun Anne Kelly said: “It is all right talking about the heritage aspect and I have got quite a bit of sympathy with English Heritage and the Victorian Society.

“We would all like to see something more in keeping but no-one has come forward. We would love to carry out all of the work which English Heritage and Victorian Society would want but it would make it too expensive for anyone to consider.”

And Coun Sue Graham, a former borough planning head, said: “English Heritage has not always been very complimentary about what Burnley Council does within Weavers' Triangle.

“But in this instance they are quite happy that the modern design is different from the historical buildings within the conservation area.”

Coun Ann Royle also said: “Facing this would be KFC and McDonald’s and they are not in keeping with the historic setting so I cannot see what is wrong.”

Councillors approved the scheme, subject to any representations from the Coal Authority.

Late discussions with the applicant had also covered introducing enhanced illumination of the Trafalgar Street frontage and adequate screening for the canalside boundary.

The project is said to represent the first element of the third phase of the 'On The Banks' development which has seen Victoria Mill, Sandygate Mill and Slater's Terrace already overhauled. Work should see a hotel and homes created.