The first floor of a town centre commercial premises is earmarked for use as a pre-school and overnight respite hub for children with autism and learning disabilities.

Chris Hickey of Your Choice Send Residentials has applied to Hyndburn Council for planning permission for the project at a property in Cedar Street, Accrington.

The first floor of the building is currently storage space.

A supporting statement says: "The property is a commercial property situated in the centre of Accrington.

"During term time between the times of 9am to 3pm the property will be used as pre-school for children with learning disabilities and autism.

"Outside of the pre-school times, the property will be used to provide respite for children with learning disabilities and autism.

"This will include short stay day respite and overnight respite.

"There will be no more than four children accessing our service for overnight provision at one time with two 'wake and watch' staff and one 'sleep in' staff member present.

"The property will be in use every night, but this does not mean four children will be accessing it each night.

"This is the maximum number of children that would access with the minimum being one child.

"Our service is in high demand with support in place from the local authority.

"We have a high demand for our service and a waiting list in place for children who require our services.

"The property is safe and secure and is a space fit for supporting the children requiring our service.

"We have an experienced and knowledgeable staff team who are able and ready to support people in our care.

"Our staff team have been keen to develop their skill set and knowledge through professional development."