A VICTORIAN shop in a township conservation area has been earmarked to become a sunbed and tanning salon.

Proposals have been submitted to convert the retail unit at 86 Queen Street, Great Harwood, by Mr G Ali.

A heritage statement accompanying the planning application to Hyndburn Council says: "The property is located within the Great Harwood Conservation Area, a designated heritage asset recognised for its special architectural and historic interest.

"Number 86 Queen Street is a two-storey, mid-19th century terraced property, constructed using local red brick with a pitched Welsh slate roof.

"The building features a traditional Victorian shopfront at ground level, with residential accommodation above.

"The shopfront includes period elements such as a recessed entrance, large display windows, and a timber fascia with potential for traditional signage.

"These architectural details, while modest, contribute to the distinctive character and historic streetscape of Queen Street, an important part of Great Harwood’s historic core.

"Constructed around the 1860s, 86 Queen Street originally functioned as a ground-floor retail unit with living accommodation above.

"This type of mixed-use building was typical of Victorian urban development in industrial towns, where shopkeepers and tradespeople commonly lived above their places of work.

"The property’s façade is characterised by simple, clean lines and functional detailing, including timber-framed sash windows with stone lintels and sills typical of the period.

"The traditional shopfront and period detailing remain key elements of the building’s significance, contributing to the overall character of the Great Harwood Conservation Area.

"The proposed change of use from a retail unit with a dwelling above to a sunbed/tanning shop has been carefully evaluated to ensure minimal impact on the heritage significance of the property and the conservation area.

"The change of use will retain the ground-floor function as a commercial premises, in keeping with the original design and historical use pattern of Queen Street.

"The external appearance of the property will remain largely unchanged, preserving its architectural contribution to the conservation area.

"The proposed internal alterations will be confined to non-structural elements to ensure the retention of the building’s historical features.

"The retention and refurbishment of the original shopfront with traditional materials will maintain the building’s historic integrity and its contribution to the streetscape.

"The proposed change of use will not detract from the building’s contribution to the conservation area.

"Instead, it will support the continued vibrancy of the local economy, ensuring that the area retains its mixed-use character.

"By ensuring that the property continues to serve a viable commercial function, the proposal supports the long-term preservation and enhancement of the conservation area."