A pub and restaurant opposite BAE Systems is looking to double the number of hotel rooms they have on site.

The Bluebird Inn in Myerscough Smithy Road has submitted a planning application to Ribble Valley Borough Council to add another 20 bedrooms for guests.

The extension would add about 400 square ft to the JW Lees pub and lead to a reduction of car parking spaces from 72 to 59, including three disabled parking spaces.

As well as an increase of 20 hotel rooms, the plans also intend to add a night manager’s room.

A planning statement reads: “The premises operates successfully and viably, and the operator has identified this as a site that can accommodate additional hotel rooms.

“A need has been identified, and this proposed extension seeks to address this.

“Weekday trade comes from surrounding commercial uses – notably the British Aerospace offices – which are expected to grow further in the coming years.

“At weekends, this location accommodates leisure visitors - walkers and those attending events in the surrounding area.

“The hotel is often fully occupied, even considering quiet periods throughout the year.”

The hotel would be staffed 24 hours a day and would also have CCTV facilities.

A planning statement reads: “As this is a hotel facility it will be in use and staffed 24 hours a day with the proposal including a night manager accommodation bedroom.

“The night staff on site will carry out a number of recorded spot checks around the building.

“Due to the nature of the building use, there will be an amount of night-time activity.

“Along with this, CCTV will be implemented in line with JW Lee’s policy.

“This is enhanced with crime prevention through the building design which will provide natural surveillance to deter criminal activity and increase the feeling of safety particularly at night.”

Local residents have until June 5 to submit any comments they have on the plans.