Blackburn building which housed opticians to get new flats.
A former optician’s building in Blackburn’s town centre conservation area has been designated for two new flats.
If a planning proposal is allowed, the ground floor of the James Street building, located in the Richmond Terrace and St John’s Conservation Area, will be converted into apartments.
Geoff and Vicky Chiu have sought for permission to change the use from opticians to two residential flats, including external improvements to the back and the reintroduction of steps to the front.
A supporting heritage statement filed to Blackburn with Darwen Council with the application states: “There are few external changes envisaged as stated on the proposed plans and elevations, which relate mostly to the rear of the aforementioned structures.
“Through the Disability Act, a steel ramp was erected to gain access to the commercial property.
“Due to the current economic climate, the two commercial properties failed, prompting the applicant to convert the lower levels to residential use as well.
“Our objective is to refurbish the lower floors so that future occupants can engage and occupy the property on the lower floors, ensuring that the building does not fall into disrepair.
“Given the sympathetic character of the building, the work will be completed with lightweight timber barriers lifted up to the ceiling level and redecorated accordingly.
“The two rear doors installed during the original restoration will be removed and replaced with windows to allow more natural light into the bedrooms.
“To allow more natural light into the basement of number 61, the steel ramp must be removed and the old steps reinstated.
“The heritage asset has little historical significance in that it is not a rarity, and that the proposal represents a material benefit in that it would secure the future use of the building.”
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