A DEVELOPER has revealed plans to restore a former police station into houses.

The former Great Harwood police station, built in 1904, was originally built to provide local police officers with good-quality family houses.

Now the building has been sold off by Lancashire Constabulary, its new owner has pledged to restore the original layout and create five properties.

The building was recently purchased by Rishton-based property development company GLC Developments Ltd under the hammer at auction at the Old Trafford football ground.

The company's Managing Director, Mr Graham Hind, said it provided an exciting opportunity to create a number of two and four-bedroom houses while preserving a local landmark.

He said: "We are about four to six weeks away from a planning application and I just thought it was important to give a word of reassurance that we're not looking at demolition.

"There is an ideal opportunity to restore this building, which we were keen to take up.

"Although this iconic and historic building is remembered by most as the old Great Harwood police station, it was originally built as police houses for officers and their families.

"We will be looking to keep the external landmark features and characteristics of the building, whilst providing a modern and high standard of accommodation, befitting today's requirements."

In the coming weeks, the company will be liaising with Hyndburn Borough council's planning department to agree details to upgrade the near 10,000 square foot building into "spacious, but affordable family homes".

Mr Hind added: "We are all unfortunately aware of the current difficult economic climate, especially within the building and housing industry and it will be our firm intention to utilise only local tradesmen and suppliers to undertake the works.

Subject to planning, it is scheduled that the first phase of the development will be released within the next six months, with the total project being completed within 12 months."

For further information, please contact: info@glcdevelopments.co.uk