A landmark pub building is set to be turned into a new town centre restaurant and flats.

Younus Khan of ZT properties wants to convert the vacant former Adelphi Hotel in Railway Road, Blackburn, into a job-creating ground floor restaurant, with six apartments on the two floors above.

The pub next to the former Lancashire Telegraph offices closed in September 2022.

Now Blackburn-based Mr Khan has submitted a planning application for the conversion to bring the old building back to life.

The former LT offices in Railway Road were turned into the Newspaper House flats in 2018.

Blackburn Central ward's Cllr Zamir Khan has welcomed the new plans.

He said:: "I think it would be good to see this former pub brought back into use.

"A restaurant and flats seems like a good idea.

"I would like to see the Adelphi name and pub features kept."

Supporting documents submitted with the planning application to Blackburn with Darwen Council say: "The application site is situated in Railway Road, Blackburn.

"It occupies a position within the North-East corner of the Darwen Street Conservation Area at one end of a terrace of commercial properties.

"The Adelphi Hotel was formerly just that - with the ground floor effectively used as a public house and the first and second floors used as guest accommodation.

"The premises ceased trading approximately 12 months ago and have remained vacant ever since. They have recently been purchased by the applicant.

"The proposal seeks consent for the conversion of a large and prominent building.

"If allowed to continue in its current state it will begin to detract from the overall character of the surrounding area.

"The proposal is twofold; at ground floor it is proposed to change the use of the premises to a licensed restaurant; at first and second floor level, it is proposed to change the use to provide six one- bedroomed, self-contained flats with independent access unrelated to the restaurant use.

"Physical alterations will all be internal.

"There will be no external alterations to any elevation fronting either Railway Road or High Street. There will be no alterations to any external features or materials.

"The building will be fully renovated to meet modern standards.

"The proposal will bring back into use vacant premises that make a significant contribution to this part of the conservation area.

"The change of use will clearly bring significant and material economic benefits: the premises are to be brought back into active use; the use will generate a significant number of permanent and part-time employment opportunities locally.

"Furthermore, the introduction of residential accommodation into the town centre will greatly enhance and make a significant contribution to this part of the terrace.

"The proposal is proportionate and much-needed by the applicant.

"The development is modern and will make a positive contribution to this part of the town centre.

"The application site is closely located to existing supportive infrastructure.

"People have the opportunity to walk safely to local shops and other facilities.

"There are public transport facilities immediately available along the terrace."