THE former police station in Barrowford may be brought back into use.

The building, which dates from the late 1800s, has been empty for almost 10 years but a planning application to turn it into office space and a dental surgery have been submitted.

In recent years, councillors have raised concerns about the building being empty for so long and its vulnerability to criminal damage and anti-social behaviour.

Coun John Pope, chairman of the parish council, said: “As far as the parish council is concerned, it is good news that it may be brought into use.

“It has been a long time coming, it’s been empty for many years, so we are pleased somebody is making something of it.

“It is a very attractive building and is in a prominent location. It is such an important building in the town.”

A spokesman for the applications said: “The former police station is a noteworthy building in Barrowford’s heritage and will provide a focal point within the townscape.

“Its last use was for educational purposes. However, since it closed as a children’s educational facility over five years ago, it has been vacant and unused.

“The Barrowford and District Committee has raised concerns about the vacant state of the building and its vulnerability.

“This is in the light of some fire damage last year to the rear of the building, vandalism and tipping.

“The re-use of the building for office accommodation will encourage the use of the village’s amenities and shops by staff and facilitate the use of public transport.”