PROPOSALS have been submitted to build five detached four-bedroom homes on a long-vacant site in Darwen.

Amanda Hodgson has requested planning permission for the development on half an acre of land north of Lower Barn Street.

A supporting statement to Blackburn with Darwen Council planners from Neil Pike Architects says: “The site previously has planning permission for four dwellings and more recently for three large detached bungalows.

“The planning history of the site dictates that residential development is acceptable.

“Although this application is for five dwellings, in contrast to the prior approval of applications for four and three dwellings respectively, the site can comfortably accommodate the additional dwelling.

“Due to the sloping topography of this site, the dwellings have been designed to take advantage of the features of the site, namely the countryside views to the rear.

“It is intended that the design of the development will enhance the locality and at the same time complement the character of the area

“Each plot has its own car barn and private driveway, thereby providing more than enough car parking.

“This site has several historic planning approvals, none of which have ever been built out.

“This is probably due, amongst other factors, to the topography of the site, which throws up various challenges.

“This current proposal will enhance the area and the street scene and will make the development a desirable place to live.

“The size of the dwellings are such that there are four bedrooms and plenty of living accommodation, for a modern day family.

“The site has stood vacant for a long time and it would benefit as would the area from finally being developed into a small attractive place to live.

“The proposed layout ensures that the impact on neighbouring properties is limited.”