A vacant former pharmacy in Blackburn town centre is to get a modern new frontage and a back yard extension.

Shifa Healthcare Ltd has been granted planning permission for the alterations to its site in Redlam in the Wensley Fold ward.

A proposal for a new entrance to the existing first-floor flat above the Witton Pharmacy shop has also been approved.

A report recommending Blackburn with Darwen Council to grant permission for the changes by planning officer Adam Shaikh says: "The application site relates to a two-storey commercial mid-terraced unit located to the northern side of Redlam, Blackburn, within the urban boundary.

"The ground floor of the premises was occupied as a pharmacy and is currently vacant.

"The first floor was used as ancillary accommodation in connection with the ground floor.

"The premises features a minor canopy style projecting element to the ground floor principle elevation and a small front garden/hard surfaced area.

"Both of these akin to the neighbouring retail unit.

"This application seeks planning permission for a new shop front and single-storey rear extension.

"The proposal alteration to the shop front will result in the introduction of two shop windows either side of the main entrance of the premises.

"A separate dedicated access for the ancillary accommodation to the party boundary with 110 will also be formed.

"The alteration to the shop front is considered minor and the proposal is considered to introduce a modern and proportionate frontage to the building.

"With regards to the rear extension, this will infill the vacant area between the existing two-storey rear outrigger at 106 and existing outrigger at the application site.

"The proposal would feature a flat roof and be screened adequately.

"In the main the immediate locality is characterised by residential uses, however a number of commercial units are present that include a wide variety of shop frontage designs – including differing materials and a wide variety of window styles.

"Given the immediate varied character of the immediate area the proposed shop front would not be out of keeping."