A HYNDBURN farmer has asked for backdated planning permission for his conversion of part of an agricultural building into stables and a riding arena.

Mr S Boros now uses the barn on land of Sandy Lane, Accrington, as stables for ten horses - two farm animals, five personal and three to look after other owners mounts.

He uses the surrounding land for a riding arena, hardstanding, grazing and the siting of an underground treatment plant

His agent Fiona Paterson of Gary Hoerty Associates in Grindleton tells borough planners: "The application is retrospective as the applicant did not know permission was required."

The rest of the barn is used for agricultural storage,

Mrs Paterson's supporting statement says: "The applicants are continuing to farm on the same scale and there are no plans to alter this.

"The development has been done to the highest standard. It will promote the diversification of an agricultural business."