A DISUSED former town centre pub could become a house in multiple occupation.

Plans have been submitted to turn the empty shell of The Britannia in Nuttall Street, Accrington, into 13 bedsit flats with three shared lounges.

Mudassar Iqbal of the Blackwood Invest Group Ltd, based in Colne Road, Burnley, believes this is the best option for the late 19th Century building.

A supporting statement has been submitted on his behalf to Hyndburn Council planners by Peak Architecture of Hebrew Road, Burnley.

It says: "The property, previously The Britannia public house, is presently disused.

"It is the applicant’s intention to re-purpose the existing building to provide much-needed residential accommodation.

"The building forms a gateway to the Woodnook regeneration area."

The scheme has been given a cautious welcome by Cllr Miles Parkinson, leader of Hyndburn Council, and Conservative group planning spokeswoman Cllr Judith Addison,

The supporting statement says: "The building occupies an important site in terms of its contribution to the established public realm.

"It was constructed in the late 19th Century.

"The condition of the building appears to be reasonable given its age and period of dis-use.

"The basement is to be utilised as a new shared lounge.

"The ground floor is set out to provide six bedrooms complete with en suites together with a shared lounge.

"The first floor would provide six new bedrooms and en suites together with a shared lounge and small utility room.

"The design of the proposed development is appropriate for its surroundings. It will also positively enhance the appearance of the area.

"The premises are in shell condition throughout and would be suitable for redevelopment.

"The property has not been operating as a public house for some time.

"It is clear that despite attempts to attract investors little interest has been shown. It is evidently not viable as a public house even without the advent of Covid-19."

Cllr Parkinson said: "It is good that someone wants to use this building but I am cautious about houses in multiple occupation. They need to offer a decent-sized space and good living standards rather than just basic bed sits,"

Cllr Addison said: "It is regrettable to lose a pub where the community used to meet, but is better to reuse a substantial building than let it remain empty and become derelict and an eyesore. Council officers will need to look carefully at the standard of accommodation on offer.