PLANS have been submitted for an extension to a ‘cramped’ social club which will make it more ‘inclusive’ for all its members.

Anthony Flanaghan, of Flanaghan Design, has applied to develop Oswaldtwistle Social Club (formerly the Conservative Club) on the corner of Rhyddings Street and Watson Street on behalf the club’s committee.

A report to Hyndburn Council planners said: “The extension is required because there is a growing membership and because of that the facilities within the function room are restrictive.

“There is little or no room between the tables and this gives a cramped feeling for clients using the room.

“The facilities within the club have been improved in the past but now need to be brought up to meet the current standards expected by members.”

It is also argued the scheme will help improve the experience for club members.

The report compiled by Mr Flanaghan said: “The toilet facilities are all located at the rear of the building and are not adequate for the numbers using them, especially the ladies toilets which can have many waiting to use them at peak times.

“The extension to the function roof will allow a better seating arrangement to be used and create a relaxed and comfortable layout that will allow members to gain access to tables without having to squeeze past each other.

“The need for a disabled toilet within the building is long overdue, in this day and age when the disabled requirements are more pre-requisite it is important that the club is seen to be inclusive to all members.”

The club is in the Rhyddings Conservation Area which is near Union Road on the west and Rhyddings Park in the east and it is surrounded by 19th and 20th century terraced houses.

The plans will be decided by Hyndburn Council.

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