BEDSITS are planned for a former office building in Blackburn town centre.

Blackburn-based young people's charity Youth Action want to turn the vacant offices at Gateway House in James Street into four bedsits.

Also included in the plan are shared living rooms and a cooking facility.

A design and access statement submitted as part of the application to Blackburn with Darwen Council said the development would provided much-needed housing.

The office building has been vacant for several months and the developer said it would be refurbished to a high standard.

The document added: " A small scale, high quality residential scheme at the application site will contribute towards the vibrancy of the town centre whilst generating increased revenue for local shops and services and for the council."