PLANS have been submitted to build nine new homes on the site of a former care home.

The land in Salisbury Road, Darwen, had once housed Greenways care home for old and infirm residents which fell into disrepair and became a target for vandals after it closed in 2013.

After the demolition of the buildings in 2015 the 0.8 acre plot of land became derelict and plans for short-term rehabilitation unit failed to materialise.

Now Blackburn construction firm boss Russell Heaton has proposed building nine red-brick houses with gardens on the site left vacant after Blackburn with Darwen Council closed its four residential homes for the elderly as part of a care shake-up.

He has submitted a planning application to the borough for eight three-bedroomed homes and one with four bedrooms.

The proposal has been welcomed by Darwen councillors Brian Taylor and Paul Browne.

A Design and Access statement submitted with the application by Gary Willis of Aldrock Ltd says: "The proposed development seeks to provide an attractive range of residential house types which will create a positive addition to the local character and identity of the area.

"The buildings formerly occupying the site have been demolished and the majority of the site is covered with vegetation.

"The proposed development involves the design and layout of nine residential units consisting of two house types which responds to the surrounding context

through design, layout and aesthetics.

"The scheme comprises of two and a half storey semi-detached three-bed dwellings and a two storey detached four-bed dwelling.

"The proposal intends to create a quality and desirable development.

"Close proximity to local services and excellent transport connections make this site a justified and viable location to attract aspiring families.

"The neighbouring area around the proposed development is largely dominated by two-storey terraced houses.

"The design of the house types have been considered to provide a varied but cohesive aesthetic throughout the site as well as correlating with the surrounding context."

Darwen West ward's Labour Cllr Taylor said: "I welcome this development.

"The neighbours will be relieved that someone has come forward to build houses on this land. It's what they've wanted since the care home was demolished."

Darwen East Liberal Democrat Cllr Browne said: "This is a good idea. I'm all for it.

"I think nearby residents will be very pleased with this proposal."

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