PLANS to build three new shops on an ‘informal’ car park in Blackburn have been approved.

An application was submitted by Four Brothers Investments Ltd to the council proposing to build the development in Victoria Street.

Developers say they want to make better use of the vacant parcel of land, with a continuation of the adjoining terrace to create an additional three retail units in the ‘already vibrant shopping area’.

They hope it will help generate sustainable economic development whilst creating employment and promoting greater choice for consumers.

And now Blackburn with Darwen Council planning officer Rebecca Halliwell has granted permission.

Just one objection was received to the application, citing fears including increased traffic and negative impact on businesses in the area.

Part of the car park will remain and customers will also have access to on-street parking bays which line the entirety of Victoria Street as well as other nearby car parks.

Ms Halliwell said: "The immediate area is predominately commercial and therefore it is considered that the proposed units would have no greater and impact than other similar uses within the immediate area and the wider Whalley Range area.

"The proposed site plan shows that five parking spaces will be provided.

"The parking provided fails to meet the requirements for three units as set out within the Blackburn with Darwen parking standards document. "However, taking into consideration that the proposal is within walking distance from the town centre, the amount of on street parking available within the immediate vicinity, along with the five spaces that will be provided, it is considered that there will be sufficient parking available within the area to accommodate three new units without adversely impacting on the immediate area in terms of highway safety."

A design and access statement submitted as part of the application reads: “Given the small-scale nature of the units being proposed, it is not envisaged that there would be a noticeable impact on parking demand or traffic generation.

“With regards to parking provision, customers will have access to the existing car park which forms the remainder of the site as well as on-street parking bays which line the entirety of Victoria Street and wider area.

“As part of the development, the existing gravel car park will be formalised which will result in a more efficient use of space.

“Permitting the proposal will not lead to a reduction in parking provision in the area given that the site has long been home to a static takeaway food van and therefore not utilised as parking for users of the town centre.

“The proposal is clearly compatible with the surrounding area which comprises a designated local shopping centre and will put to effective use a parcel of land to create sustainable economic growth, job creation and promote consumer choice.

“It will also result in no adverse impacts in relation to amenity or highways and will enhance the character and appearance of the area.”