Darwen is set to get four new 'designer dwellings'

Three of them will be on a patch of land at The Clough in the town.

Mr B Quinn has been granted planning permission with 24 conditions for the development which will see prospective purchasers draw up their own custom-created designs with him.

One is on land in Astley Street, Darwen, following the demolition of five dilapidated garages.

Miss Kim Ray has been granted approval with 20 conditions for the homes of a contemporary design.

Reports to councillors on Blackburn with Darwen Council planning committee, which approved the new homes say: "Policy states that the council will support proposals for self-build and custom-build housing.

"The first occupation of the dwelling hereby approved shall be by a person or persons who has had a primary input into the design and layout of dwelling."

How the site in The Clough looks currently

The report on the three homes at The Clough says: "The site comprises an embankment of rough grazing land.

"Indicative plans are submitted showing proposed dwellings to be a mix of natural stone, timber cladding and tiled roofs. It should be emphasised that the plans are only indicative.

"Plots would be marketed individually, and buyers would then advance detailed bespoke design proposals.

"The site represents only a portion of a wider Open Space designation and is an area relatively devoid of any discernible function or public benefit.

"The identified Open Space policy conflict is found to be outweighed by the merits of delivering a self-build development which would contribute towards

the council’s statutory obligation to promote and deliver self-build and custom-build housing and to maintain a register of demand."

The report on the new house in Astley Street says: "The proposed development involves the construction of a single self-build dwelling following the demolition of five garages.

"The proposed dwelling would have front and rear gardens with a two-space driveway.

"An open plan kitchen/lounge/dining area, bedroom/study, single garage and storage areas would be provided on the ground floor. Two bedrooms and

shower rooms would be provided on the first floor.

"The application site forms part of a small garage colony and grassed area, that covers an area of circa 0.25 acres.

"It is reported to be used by the local community as an informal ‘village green’.

"The land is poorly maintained with regular fly-tipping and rubbish deposited.

"The applicant is the intended owner/occupier of the proposed self-build unit,

"The proposed dwelling would appear relatively contemporary when viewed against the adjacent terraced dwellings.

"A great deal of consideration has been applied to this bespoke dwelling."