PLANS to develop a “grot spot” that has blighted Great Harwood have been announced.

The former St Lawrence Mill site off Britannia Street has been in a “terrible state” for years and it is hoped that by allowing houses to be built on the land problems in the area could be solved.

Coun Peter Clarke said he has been battling for something to be done to with the land, which is currently blighted by rubble, and fly-tipping.

Now a planning application has been submitted to Hyndburn Council for 79 new homes to be built.

Coun Clarke said: “The site is in a terrible state. It’s very early days because this is just an outline planning application for housing. We don’t want a high-density development and we will insist on quality building.”

In recent years two other planning application have been successful for the site, including three years ago when plans were given the go-ahead for a 135-bed children’s home.

That development has never materialised.

Coun Clarke added: “The site has been approved for various uses in the past but I just want to see it cleared up.”

In the application, agent Indigo Planning Ltd states: “The site is highly suitable for residential development. It is in a sustainable location adjacent to Great Harwood town centre, which would provide residents with easy access to shops, services and jobs within walking distance.

”The development fits in with the surrounding use, character and appearance. As the land is currently vacant, full of rubble and overgrown it presents an eyesore and crime concern to surrounding residents.”

The plans include a mix of flats and houses along with 100 parking spaces, including six garages for detached properties.