COUNCILLORS have approved the next step in the transformation of the first floor of a historic town hall damaged by floods on 2015 into a business hub.

The £331,000 scheme was discussed by councillors Burnley Council’s Development Control Committee on Thursday.

The councillors granted planning approval for the upgrade to Padiham Town Hall, a Grade II Listed building in the Neo-Classical style dating from 1938.

Applicant Burnley Council has been given a grant by the Lancashire Enterprise Partnership to pay for the refurbishment of the ‘powerful and highly visible landmark’.

The work includes essential roof repairs including re-lining of the existing gutter; refurbishment of steel window frames; minor repairs to perished stone and cills; re-configuration of modern stud partitions to form new doorways; the renovation of kitchens; improved WC facilities including replacing damaged/obsolete sanitaryware; and the redecoration of common areas and all first floor offices.

The move was backed by borough housing boss Cllr John Harbour.

Hapton with Park's Cllr Allan Hosker, leader of the council Conservative Group, said: "It's nice to see some investment in Padiham."