THE majority of a business park that is in 'danger of collapse' could make way for 42 new homes if plans are approved later this year.

Applicant Great Harwood LLP is seeking permission from Hyndburn Council to demolish most of the Waverledge Business Park which has been the target of 'anti-social behaviour and criminal activity' over recent years.

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The Waverledge Street site is around 70 per cent empty according to documents submitted to the council and would be in need of 'significant repair' if permission is withheld.

Nearby residents were invited to look over the proposals last year at the Central Methodist Church and Community Centre in King Street with the applicant concluding that the 'overwhelming consensus' was positive.

A spokesman for Northmill Associates Ltd, which is acting as the applicant's agent, said: "The site occupies roughly half of Waverledge Business Park; a cluster of small businesses occupying part of a large Edwardian brick-built warehouse and outlying cluster of buildings.

"The applicant's ownership occupies the majority of the surface area and is circa 70 per cent vacant and in need of significant repair works with some areas in danger of collapse.

"The site has been subject to anti-social behaviour and criminal activity including arson and represents a significant risk to the local residential community as a result.

"Following the crash in the global economy, the site uses as a commercial/light industrial employment location has continued to dwindle and as such its current viability for this use has significantly diminished.

"Occupancy is at best 30 per cent of the lettable floor area and the resulting lack of funding has left the building in need of considerable repair work.

"Attracting new tenants over the past several years has proved futile, especially considering better employment facilities with greater access are offered nearby at Altham, Accrington and Blackburn.

"The surrounding residential area and proximity to the town centre mean the site is conducive to a residential purpose.

"The best course of action is to clear the site and re-develop to offer residential accommodation.

"This is supported by local policy and residents who wish to see the unsightly site and crime risk rejuvenated for the long-term prosperity and security of the area."

The plan is similar to one granted by the council for 45 homes on the site in 1991.

Cllr Gareth Molineux, who represents the area on Hyndburn Council, said: "For as long as I can remember the site has been an eyesore.

"Great Harwood has to take its fair share of new houses.

"I can't have any concerns over the impact to the existing infrastructure and the nearby schools have not been full for a while now."