THE future of a former health centre remains uncertain as councillors differ on the design of a proposed new development.

The old health centre building in Market Street was bought by Pendle Council two years ago and plans were submitted for new shops with apartments above.

But Pendle’s Liberal Democrat group leader Cllr Tony Greaves said the plans have ‘been thrown into crisis’ due to a row over the new development’s design.

The planning application was sent to Pendle Council’s Colne and District area committee for decision in January, but he said the Conservatives deferred the decision ‘pending discussions on an alternative design.’

The former health centre closed in May 2014 when it moved to a state-of-the-art building in Craddock Road.

Cllr Greaves said any more delays would risk the old health centre 'falling into dilapidation and turning into an eyesore in the very heart of the town.'

He said: “We asked the applicants (PEARL) to make some sensible changes to the design to fit in better with Colne and they will now go for approval to the March meeting of the committee.

“I appeal to the Conservative councillors get on with this scheme which is so important for the future of our town centre. Any more delays risk the old health centre falling into dilapidation and turning into an eyesore in the very heart of the town.”

But Conservative Joe Cooney said several councillors had concerns at the last Colne Area Committee about the building design and its relationship to the Red Lion pub, which is a listed building.

Cllr Cooney said: “We care about the quality of development in Colne and we aren’t prepared to accept a design that isn’t going to bring a positive impact to the town. “