PLANS have been unveiled for a new short break unit on the site of a former special needs school in East Lancashire.

County social services officials say the single-storey facility, at the old North Cliffe school land in Great Harwood, would "provide high quality overnight accommodation for children and young people with disabilities".

Children could stay for one night, a weekend or a short break during the school holidays.

This might see the young people, who would be aged from 11 to 18, arriving for stays several times a year.

Outlining the proposals for the Blackburn Old Road site, a county planning agent said: "The accommodation will meet the needs of the most complex children and young people, who will have a range of medical needs and challenging behaviour."

Up to six children can stay at any one time and there would be a living room, dining area, and accommodation for two staff, alongside space for parents and carers, with an external play area also provided. The centre would be open 365 days a year.