DARWEN'S run-down Two Gates estate could be replaced by 260 luxury homes if new plans are approved.

Moves to tear down the mill formerly owned by office seat manufacturer Evertaut and build an estate stretching to Shelley Grove are to be discussed by Blackburn with Darwen Council.

The estate would comprise privately-owned and rented two-to-four-bedroom houses and would replace homes in Twin Valley Homes's Two Gates estate which are due to be pulled down later this week.

Cheshire-based developer Fairclough Homes and social landlord Twin Valley say a total of 25 homes will be rented to Twin Valley tenants, 50 will go to families currently on housing waiting lists and the remaining 185 will be sold privately.

Sudell ward councillor Roy Davies said: "I think it would be really good for Darwen, especially because it will be a mix of private and rented homes."

Twin Valley's Glen Finch said the overall aim was to give people a greater range of choice in housing.

Residents can view the plans at Darwen Town Hall.