A FORMER primary school site which has been disused for almost 10 years could be turned into a 24-hour petrol station.

Leeds-based Valli Forecourts Ltd has submitted an application to Burnley Council proposing to build the petrol station on the old Padiham County Primary School site, creating three full time and 10 part time jobs in the process.

As well as the petrol station, the proposed development would include a shop selling cigarettes, newspapers, magazines, snacks, sandwiches, dairy products, cold drinks, groceries and car accessories.

There would also be a car wash and parking for customers with 24 spaces including one disabled bay.

Padiham County Primary School was knocked down in 2013 having been vacant since 2009 with the land put up for sale by Lancashire County Council.

A deal between LCC and a previous agreed buyer fell through in 2011.

Padiham County Primary School was opened in 1910 and demolished in 2013.

The site is now a cleared brownfield plot with retained stone boundary walls and gateways left over from when the school had been open.

A design and access statement submitted as part of the application reads: "The proposed development has been carefully designed to accommodate its surroundings in a largely residential area.

"The building and car wash have been designed with stone walls and slate roofs to give a natural feel and again keep the same values of neighbouring properties.

"The sustainable development will create additional employment and safe guard exist employment for now and also the future with enhance working conditions.

"The design of the proposals are considered to be both appropriate in their context and in compliance with relevant planning policy, providing a clean modern and sustainable forecourt shop premises which contribute to the local economy through business rates and employment and provide a longer building life and enhanced corporate reputation.

"It is considered that the scale of the proposal is appropriate for the site. The proposed development will not impact the amenities of nearby residents.

"On balance we consider that the development would not give rise to any unacceptable consequences for the environment, community or other public interest."