PLANS to transform an existing mill into a nursery have been lodged.

Applicant Glenn Kitchen, of Metex (Darwen) Ltd, has applied for permission to convert a large proportion of the factory in Holden Fold in Darwen into a children’s nursery.

Under the bid, the current building would be divided to form the new nursery together with an outside enclosed play area.

The building is currently used by the Darwen-based firm to manufacture textiles and indoor dust covers for cars.

In its design and access statement, on behalf of Metex (Darwen) Ltd, Chorley-based Entwistle Design Services said that there is a ‘shortage’ of nursery places in the area.

“With the government's revised hours entitlement, the situation can only get worse,” they said.

“The proposal will help to alleviate this problem.

“The nursery is situated between two roads giving easy access for parents to drop off and pick up their children.”

Cllr Jane Oates, who represents the area on Blackburn with Darwen Council, said she welcomed the plans.

Ms Oates: “I’ve visited the site myself yesterday (Thursday) and spoke to Metex.

“I’m assured that this building is a good spot for a nursery and that there is a need for a nursery in this catchment area of Darwen.

“I think it’s a good idea that will address nursery shortages in the area.

“The building is very big and I think it would look quite nice if it was refurbished into a nursery.”

A spokesperson for Metex said: “There is a private car park that we use on the site with plenty of parking spaces.

“There’s also an area for parking in land nearby.

“There is a need for a nursery in this catchment area of the town, as we’ve seen the Darwen Moorland High School demolished last year, and there are plans for houses to go there.

“We are also a family firm going back decades, as Mr Kitchen’s father founded the company.

“The company with this nursery now want to evolve and become more modern.”

The plans will be considered at a future planning meeting of Blackburn with Darwen council.