THE overhaul of a discount store building with an empty first floor on a main road can now go ahead.

Burnley Council has granted planning permission for the refurbishment of B and N Bargains premises on Colne Road out of the town centre.

The ground floor's retail space will be cut into two shops with four self-contained flats above it.

Documents submitted with the planning application by Hajra Khan of Cromer Avenue, Burnley, say: "The property is located within walking distance to Burnley town centre.

"It is a substantial two-storey building constructed in circa-1900 in stone.

"The existing retail space has a large area of unoccupied storage space on the first floor as the retail space has plenty of space of the ground floor to accommodate and facilitate the running of the business.

"The client's brief is to create residential unit for young professionals who will be able to walk and take the public transport to go to work.

"The proposal has two elements within the building structure - retention of the retail shop floor and also to separate the space into two units and the change of uses of the first floor storage space into four apartments with new access arrangement for the residential units.

"The proposed design is sympathetic and care has been taken to minimise any visual impact on the main street scene.

"The proposal has been designed to be of a high quality.

"This will enhance the existing facility within the building space and help meet housing requirements within the borough.

"We feel the submitted application will provide a sustainable and viable future for the building and make a positive impact on the local area."

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