OUTLINE permission for up to 35 new homes in Blackburn would allow the council to sell land off to developers, according to planning chiefs.

An application is due to go before the council’s planning and highways committee next week seeking permission for 35 homes on land at Lomond Gardens in Blackburn.

If approved, council bosses will seek to sell the site to developers using an informal tender process.

The site was formerly in use as a cinder all weather pitch, used by St Bede’s RC High School.

It has not, however, been used for this purpose since 1997.

Five objections were lodged against the plans citing concerns about access, impact on schools and road safety.

Borough planner Nick Blackledge said: "The proposal corresponds with the council’s overarching housing growth strategy, as set out in the core strategy and local plan part 2.

"It suitably demonstrates the ability to deliver a high quality development, consistent with the surrounding area.

"It would also make an important contribution towards the council’s housing delivery targets and it will add to the vitality of the local housing market.

"Moreover, development of the site would alleviate instances of anti-social behaviour experienced by the local community, in the form scrambling bikes.

"As an outline application seeking only the principle of residential development, full highways consideration will be applied to a subsequent reserved matters application, with regard to layout, vehicular / pedestrian access / movement, parking and impact on the wider highway network.

"A transport statement and a travel plan will inform a full assessment.

"It should, however, be acknowledged that indicative access options into the site are currently suggested, from the end of Lomond Gardens and off Old Gates Drive.

"Both options are deemed viable and will be further explored at reserved matters stage, together with internal highway layout and provision for off street parking, when a detailed design shall be submitted for assessment."

Committee members will decide whether to grant permission in a meeting at Blackburn town hall on Thursday.