PLANS for a ‘burger bus’ just off Blackburn’s Curry Mile could be back on the menu.

Bolton-based businessman Sarfaraz Patel wanted to install a double-decker on spare land at Whalley Range business park. He told the borough council seven new jobs would be created by the venture, which would trade until 11pm on Saturdays.

But 19 neighbours objected to the bid, which would have seen a food preparation area on the lower deck and seating above.

Borough development chiefs turned down Mr Patel’s original plan but now a new application has been submitted to the council. The proposed location of the bus has moved further away from homes on nearby Brookhouse Gardens.

In a statement submitted to the council, Rahat Anwar, speaking on behalf of Mr Patel, said: “ Many food outlets need a unique customer experience to survive in a highly competitive market.

“Similar ideas have been implemented in other towns, including restaurants modelled on a bus (Birmingham) and a plane (Bolton).

“The eye-catching design is hoped to attract customers in a part of Blackburn with many eating options by offering them something different.”

Site owner Vali Investments have confirmed that they have endorsed a car parking agreement with Mr Patel for the land, which also houses the Asia Continental store and Shin-Gi-Rug Thai boxing centre.

Planning officer Rebecca Halliwell, under delegated powers, refused the initial application, agreeing the double-decker would be ‘overbearing’ for nearby residents.

She added: “The proposal will result in an over-concentration of hot food takeaways within a reasonable walking distance of Brookhouse Primary School, defined by a 400m exclusion zone, and the proposed opening hours conflict with the operating hours of the school, thereby demonstrating detriment to public health.”