Youth plan set for approval

Lancashire Youth Association has applied for planning permission to use offices in Brennand House, in Fraser Street, Queensgate, to set up the service, which it said will offer structured workshops and activities for young people.

But more than 30 people living in the surrounding streets signed a petition objecting to the proposals because they fear it will become a drop-in centre for youths.

Michael Barry, of Bracewell Street, who organised the petition, said: "I live in this area and I do not want this kind of thing on my doorstep - I don't think many people would. We just want to live in peace and quiet."

Mr Barry, 55, who lives with his wife Dorothy, 65, said residents were also worried about road safety because there was no extra parking included in the plans.

Lancashire Youth Association, which supports voluntary groups throughout the county, plans to use the premises as a base for staff and to train volunteers. It will also house staff involved in the Burnley Youth Action Zone Project, which aims to get young people actively involved in their communities.

Rehana Koser, project manager for the Preston-based association, said: "This will not be a drop in centre for youths. It will involve groups of motivated young people giving up their free time to learn particular skills to benefit the community at large."

A report by Burnley Council planning officers to the development control committee, which will decide whether to grant planning permission when it meets on Thursday, states that the centre will not operate as a drop-in youth club, but will offer structured activities and workshops for young people to sign up to.

The report states that the parking problems will be resolved by a residents' parking scheme which is due to be introduced.

Planners do not believe the new centre will have a detrimental effect on the area for local residents and have recommended that the committee approves the proposals.