A former town centre tattoo parlour is to be turned into a launderette.

Anis Amanjy has been granted planning permission to convert the ground floor premises in Mincing Lane, Blackburn.

The upper floors of the property in the Darwen Street Conservation Area previously used as storage space will become a two-bedroomed flat.

Blackburn with Darwen Council has approved the proposed change of use of ground floor from tattoo parlour to a launderette with two planning conditions.

The authority's public protection department questioned whether the upper floor flat was appropriate in view of the hot food takeaway next door and the resultant noise and smells.

Its housing consultee expressed concern at its layout and poor rear exit as the occupier's 'only means of escape'.

A report by planning officer Jamie Edwards said: "The application site relates to a mid-terraced property situated in on the eastern side of Mincing Lane, within the Blackburn Town Centre boundary.

"The surrounding area is predominately commercial in character, and the site lies within the Darwen Street Conservation Area.

"The property is currently vacant and was previously used as a tattoo studio.

"Planning permission is sought for a change of use at the ground floor from the existing tattoo parlour to a retail shop.

"The original proposal also sought to convert the first and second floors which are currently used as storage space to ancillary living accommodation in the form of an apartment comprising of two bedrooms.

"However, it should be noted that planning permission is not required to form an ancillary flat in connection with a commercial use, and therefore this aspect of the proposal has been removed from the application.

"No external alterations are proposed to the building.

"Ten neighbours were consulted by letter and no comments were received.

"Considering the existing premises is also in commercial use, albeit vacant, at present it is considered that the proposed change of use to a retail shop is acceptable.

"The proposal only seeks minor external alterations to the rear of the building in terms opening up the currently blocked door opening which is considered acceptable.

"In addition, the proposal would provide for the regeneration of a vacant unit, and is therefore considered to have a positive impact to the street scene and conservation area."