A BACUP pub and two derelict shops could be converted into eight apartments.

MSI Property Investments Ltd wants to reconfigure the Commercial Hotel on Newchurch Road as two two-bed flats and two one-bed flats on the ground floor, with three two-bed apartments and one one-bed flat on the first floor.

The agent, Pendle Enterprise Haven, has written a report outlining why Rossendale Council’s planning officials should support the move.

Its document says: “The main entrance door is to be retained and would provide the means of entry to the development.

“Whilst there are some modifications required in order to transform the vacant property in to a high quality residential scheme, there are minimal changes proposed to the exterior of the building.

“The boarded up shop frontages will be replaced with high quality new window openings which mirror those of the first floor.”

The development would only have room for four cars to park, but the developers do not see this as a problem – adding that there will be “sufficient space for bicycle storage”.

The report adds: “Those residing in one bedroom apartments such as young professionals and single households are less likely to be vehicle owners compared with a scheme proposing family dwellings.