A FORMER town centre bar and nightclub in a conservation area is to become a block of affordable flats for young professionals.

Planning permission has been granted to turn the Bar Java in Wellington Fold in Darwen into seven residential apartments.

Applicant Barry Bentley can now start work on the development.

This despite an objection from Darwen West councillor Brian Taylor which said: "I’m concerned that these apartments would be very close to existing late night venues that are inherently noisy.

"We already have a number of empty apartments in the town centre."

A planning officer's report recommending Blackburn with Darwen Council to approve the scheme said: "This application relates to a 287 square metre vacant building; a former bar/nightclub known

as Bar Java. Walls are stone and brick, with a slate roof.

"The site lies within the Darwen Town Centre Conservation Area.

"The proposal seeks to change the use of the premises, with associated alterations, to seven residential apartments for the open market, comprising three one bed and four two bed flats.

"The agent advises that the occupants are likely to be young professionals starting out in their careers. The scheme will offer affordable living for these individuals.

"The applicant confirmed that the flats will be for sale, however there is nothing stopping an investor from buying and then renting them out in the future.

"The ground floor will accommodate three one bedroom apartments, with a kitchen living space and separate bathroom.

"The first floor would consist of four further two bedroom apartments, with the second of the bedrooms being located on the second floor.

" The applicant has provided comprehensive evidence to demonstrate a need for this type of accommodation, including evidence from local estate agents.

"To ensure that the premises do not fall into house in multiple occupation / hostel use, a condition can be attached to reinforce the position that the approved use applies to apartments only.

"The proposal is to bring a vacant building in the town centre of Darwen, a conservation area, back into an active and viable use, which would have social, environmental and economic benefits.

"The external changes are positive: reintroducing sliding sash windows and hardwood doors to improve the appearance of the building.

"The proposal would make a positive contribution to the conservation area by bringing the building back to life, without undue harm, and meeting a demonstrated housing need."