A PRIVATE hire vehicle firm has been given the go ahead to expand with new parking spaces.

Burnley Council's Development Control Committee has approved 24 slots for the business based at 143 St James’s Street, Burnley.

The premises have been used as a taxi booking office since the 1980’s with numerous firms operating from there.

Councillors were told: "Most recently City and Ronnie's Private Hire have taken over ownership of the premises and expanded the business.

"The application has been brought to committee as an objection has been received on parking grounds."

Kathy Bibby, for the applicant, told councillors that the extra spaces would not cause traffic or parking problems as automation and new communications technology meant that vehicles could pick up fares without the need to return to the office.

She said the firm has originally sought to increase the total number of vehicles operating from the office to 75 but after discussion with planning officers regarding highway concerned had reduced it to 60 meaning the 24 spaces proposed, all within 100 metres of the office, were adequate for the firm and safe.

The application was approved.