PLANS to convert part of a former barn at Cow Pasture Farm, in Barnoldswick, into an office and gymnasium could fall at the first hurdle if Pendle councillors follow planning officers' advice to refuse the application.

The site is in open countryside and the proposal relates to previously converted agricultural buildings.

The applicant wants to split the current office and residential use by converting storage space to an office.

There would also be a timber conservatory at the rear to provide additional office space and a gym at first floor level.

Additional domestic accommodation would also be included on first floor.

The proposed office will occupy 39.35 square metre compared with the current office floorspace of 20 square metres.

Council officers have recommended the plans for refusal on the grounds that the proposed conservatory is contrary to the local plan and that the proposal would result in an unacceptable increase in the use of the narrow, unlit, undrained and poorly-surfaced access road.

They also believe it would lead to increased traffic, which could affect highway safety.