A DERELICT primary school that dates back to the 1800s could be converted into flats.

Plans have been submitted to turn the former Barnoldswick CE Primary School into 11 apartments with 18 car parking spaces and 11 cycle spaces.

If given the green light the three-storey building would include a mix of one and two bedroom flats, according to an application submitted by Skipton Properties LTD.

The building in York Street has stood empty since the school moved to a new site next to West Craven High School in Kelbrook Road in 2014.

The building houses a historic stone which it is hoped will be relocated to the new school site.

In the planning application submitted to Pendle Council, a spokesman for Skipton Properties LTD, said: “The proposal retains the existing, currently unused building and brings it back to use.

“The site is within walking distance of all local amenities, with good public transport and being close to schools, services, shops and places of employment. It offers opportunities for walking and cycling as an alternative to everyday car use.

“Converting it to residential apartments will add to much needed housing stock and bring a derelict building back to beneficial use.”

Rachel Kemp, who submitted a comment, said the building still holds a historic foundation stone which dates back to 1883.

She said: “The stone has sentimental and symbolic value to the past, present and future church school community.

“We respectively request that during this extensive building project, consideration be given to the relocation of this stone to the new Barnoldswick Church of England Primary School site in Kelbrook Road.”

Cllr David Whipp, who covers the Craven ward, said: “It came as a surprise that the Diocese and authority had sold it to a developer just before Christmas.

“Myself and others suggested the site might have been a good one for a new health centre which is on the cards for Barnoldswick. It is a bit of a disappointment.

“There has been a mixed response with concerns about parking in the immediate area.

“Other people think without a use for the building it will fall into dereliction.

“Obviously developers will be keen to turn a profit and there is not a great deal we can do about that.”