A FARMER can turn his land into an outdoor activity centre for ramblers, says North Turton Parish Council.

Ray Houghton, 45, of Clough Head Farm, on Broadhead Road, Darwen, wants to convert his piggery into self-catering accommodation containing eleven self-contained rooms on a site featuring a large car park and campsite.

Michael McNicholas, chairman of Blackburn and Darwen Ramblers' Association, said: "I'm delighted this scheme has been accepted and I think it will be a crucial addition to the area. You get people visiting from all over the place to see the sights and I think it will do really well."

Coun Deborah Dunleavy said anything that helped farmers to develop the land was a 'positive move forward'.

The planning application will now be heard by Blackburn with Darwen planning committee.