BLACKBURN College has applied for planning permission for a glazed extension for its proposed sixth form centre site in St Paul's Avenue.

It would enclosed an undercroft used by rough sleepers and provide additional student study space and extra seating for its cafeteria.

A Design and Access statement submitted to Blackburn with Darwen Council planners with the application says: "This planning application is submitted for the erection of a glazed extension

for Blackburn College, St Paul’s Avenue, Blackburn, a general Further Education College supporting around 11,000 learners.

""The area is to be used as part of an investment to create a dedicated Sixth Form Centre and is an important part of the college strategy.

"The area will provide a student study space and additional seating for the current catering outlet.

"The existing undercroft also attracts rough sleepers and so enclosing the undercroft would address this concern.

"The area is currently hard landscaped.

"In order to complement the adjacent buildings, the structure has a monopitched roof profile with a matching fascia. The structure is constructed in steel with a powder-coated finish.

"The structure is located in relation to the existing college buildings in such a way as to enhance access, particularly in inclement weather.

"This proposal forms an essential part of the plan to create a dedicated Sixth Form Centre at Blackburn College."

The college hopes to open the new centre later this year.