PLANS to build 49 homes on the former site of a football ground and nightclub have been announced.

But the proposals for the development in Wood Street, Great Harwood, look set to be thrown out after a series of concerns were raised over the scheme.

Owner Ian Jackson has been attempting to begin the development of the former Monroe’s nightclub and Great Harwood Town Football Club for several years.

Great Harwood Town FC folded and resigned from the North West Counties League three years ago and the nightclub burnt down in the same year.

Mr Jackson wants planning permission to build 12 two-bedroomed apartments, 18 three-bedroomed houses and 19 four-bedroomed houses, including driveways and garages.

But the authorities have raised fears over the site’s proximity to a nearby abattoir, as well as poor road provision.

Environmental health bosses have said the plans should be refused on grounds of odour and noise nuisance.

But regeneration bosses said that the “mix of housing is welcome and reflects the local need”.

If the plans are approved Mr Jackson has pledged to pay £300,000 to Great Harwood Rovers Football Club, which operates from the adjoining playing fields, towards the building of their planned new changing rooms.

Similar plans were announced last year but were withdrawn and now Mr Jackson said that the nearest house to the abattoir in the development will be protected by a 70-metre buffer zone.

Sarah Walmsley, of agents AJH Associates, said: “The site has a very colourful history which is well known within the local community.

“The proposed development is to give it a new lease of life, allowing it to be of benefit to the community rather than its current eyesore and hindrance.”

The proposals will be debated by Hyndburn’s planning panel but have been recommended for refusal.