A NEW 17 bed house for the homeless could be set to be built at a warehouse in a crime hotspot if plans go ahead.

Proposals have been submitted to Hyndburn Council for 24 Barnes Street, Accrington to be converted into a house of multiple occupancy.

A crime impact statement for police warned that over the past 12 months there had been 'high levels of crime' in the vicinity.

However Steve Pickles, who submitted the plans, said the site would bring some much needed help in the area to those who need it.

The 64-year-old from Rossendale said: "It will put a redundant building to good use and help the problem of homeless people in the area.

"We've spoken to staff at Maundy Relief and they said there is a need for this sort of thing in Hyndburn.

"We'll make sure it is done up to a very high standard and properly managed."

Mr Pickles has worked at Sutcliffe and Co footwear wholesaler, the current use of 24 Barnes Street, since 1962.

The proposed building would primarily be for residents of Hyndburn and would be opened out further if rooms remained.

He also helps run 18 similar homes across areas such as Rossendale and Heywood.

He said: "We've never had any problems in the area.

"Since 1962 we've had one break in years ago and and the odd bit of graffiti but that's it.

"It certainly shouldn't harm the area or create any more problems."

Davina Hall, 'designing out crime officer' for the police, said certain safety requirements must be put in place if the plans go ahead.

This includes digital CCTV, an anti-vandal proof access control system, 24 hour lighting and more.

She said in a statement: "Over the past 12 months there have been high levels of crime and incidents recorded in the vicinity of the proposed development, including 71 burglaries, criminal damage, assaults and vehicle crime.

"Developments that incorporate multiple apartments or bedrooms can also suffer adversely from crime and anti-social behaviour due to unrestricted access to other rooms.

"It is essential that community safety and security measures are incorporated into the development to reduce the risk for residents."

Cllr Joyce Plummer, who represents the area on Hyndburn Council, said she is against the plans.

The building would include seven bedrooms and a communal kitchen on the ground floor and 10 rooms on the first, and each level would also include two bathrooms and a laundry area.