Plans to convert a large disused barn into three family homes near Blackburn have been refused.

The application by The Pendleton Estate proposed to convert Sykes Barn in the Ribble Valley village of Copster Green into three “high quality” three-storey homes.

The current barn and its surrounding buildings are “no longer suited to modern farming techniques” according to the application, and the site “requires repurposing for a new use.”

The proposal was for the main barn to become three four-bedroom homes and the outbuildings to be converted into garages and storage areas.

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In a decision notice, Ribble Valley Borough Council said: “The proposed development is considered to amount to an unsympathetic conversion of the application building.

"It would adversely affect the character and appearance of the historic barn building, as such the proposal is not considered to be an appropriate conversion.

“The application has failed to demonstrate that the necessary sightlines required to serve the proposed development would be achievable for the application site.

"In light of this, it is not considered that the application as submitted fully assesses the highways impact of the proposed development nor demonstrates that safe access would be achieved for the development.”

One of the third-party representations received by the council highlighted this, saying the entrance to the site has “very poor visibility.”

A design and access statement put together by Zara Moon Architects said: “The site requires re-purposing for a new use which would safeguard the future of a traditional character building within this area, through a high-quality design proposal.

“We have worked together with the applicant to create a solution to re-purpose the existing site through a sensitive design proposal, whilst being mindful of the surrounding context and characteristics of the existing buildings.

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“The completed scheme would create three outstanding family homes, and an exceptional example of rural property design, suitable for sustainable, contemporary living.”

The statement added that the existing courtyard will be used as a private recreational space for each house, benefiting from screening and protection from its location on Longsight Road.

The applicant has six months to appeal the council’s decision if they wish.

To view the plans in full, visit the council’s planning website.