PLANS have been lodged to convert a former pub into apartments.

The Hamilton Arms in Hollin Street, Blackburn, was closed for business in March 2017.

Since then the property has been on the market for sale and it has been necessary to fit metal shutters to both doors and windows to ensure vandalism is kept to a minimum.

It is proposed to convert and extend the former pub into seven separate flats.

A design and access statement submitted as part of the application reads: "The existing rear beer garden will be turned in to a parking area for the flats.

"A turning area is to be provided to ensure all vehicles can enter and exit the site in a forward gear.

"The building at present is an eyesore and of no community use to the area. There is another public house close by The Havelock Inn.

"This pub continues to serve the Ewood area and as such the building as a public house is not financially viable.

"Our proposal will enhance the area. The flats will be visually pleasing and will be affordable for local people."