A NEW town centre live music venue is set to get a temporary planning permission despite 19 objections over the noise and disturbance it may cause.

Grant Mizon want to turn the empty basement of a large mill building in Borough Road, Darwen into an entertainment hub.

The club, which would accommodate 150 people and create new jobs, would be in the former Co-op Bakery vacated by Darwen Windows Ltd in 2020.

A proposal has also been floated to turn the top two floors into an ‘exciting and creative’ events space.

Mr Mizon's application for the basement will be discussed by Blackburn with Darwen Council's planning committee on Thursday night.

Councillors are recommended to grant a temporary permission for 12 months to assess its impact in terms of noise and disturbance.

The objections include one from Darwen West ward's Cllr Brian Taylor which says: "I am concerned about the noise potential and disturbance for the residents of Borough Rd."

Michelle Bedworth of Reservoir Street, Darwen, tells councillors: "I would have to say absolutely not as we already have Spitfire, Level and the Vault close by. This is ridiculous. It is loud and

disruptive enough as it is."

Gary Mitchell of Punstock Road, Darwen's objection says:. "The noise from the venue is going to cause sound disturbance especially at weekends. There are enough music venues in town."

A planning officers report says: "Uncertainty around noise impacts on the locality, particularly towards residential uses, informs the recommendation of a 12 month temporary permission to allow proactive monitoring of use.

"Other noise mitigation conditions requiring sound proofing of the building further support the recommendation for a temporary period.

"At the end of the 12 months, the use would cease until and unless a new grant of planning permission.

"Although the application does not explicitly propose a temporary permission, one is agreed in principle with the applicant.

"Full planning permission is sought for the use of the lower ground floor to a live music venue.

"It would include a bar area, customer toilets, staff / admin / first-aid room and a performance / DJ stage.

"The applicant seeks operating hours of; Sunday to Thursday 18:30 to 23:30 and Friday to Saturday 18:30 to 04:00.

"The potential for noise disturbance is recognised as an important consideration and significant public objection has been received citing this concern."