Councillors have given the go-ahead for the first phase of a major scheme to bring a long-derelict block in the centre of Nelson back to life.
Members of Pendle Council’s Nelson Committee agreed unanimously last night to plans to turn the first floor of the former Woolworths/Burtons block fronting both Scotland Road and Leeds Road into 11 apartments - 10 one-bedroom, the other two-bedroomed.
Councillors heard the shops have been empty for more than a decade but there are plans to bring them back into use. As former retail units, no planning permission is needed for this part of the plan.
Planning agent Alan Kinder, speaking for prospective developers Myan Partnership Ltd, said it was a “sizeable refurbishment” of the building which, if approved, could prove to be a catalyst for the town centre area and bring additional vibrancy.
The plans were fully accredited with national planning frameworks, he said, and asked members to “fully endorse” the recommendations of officers to approve the plans.
Coun. Nadeem Ahmed said: “The shops have been empty for many years and this has not been good for the town.
“It is about time they were brought back into use and it will make the town centre more attractive.”
Members heard there had been no objections to the proposals from the public or other bodies. A report to the meeting said there was adequate parking and public transport links within walking distance.