PLANS to replace an abandoned pub with a new block of flats on a Blackburn estate have divided the community.

Members of Blackburn with Darwen Council's planning and highways committee gave approval for the new 30-apartment block on the Shadsworth estate -- as long as the builders agree to build a playground next door.

The development, which will be three storeys high, will be built on the site of the former Rovers Return pub, which is currently derelict.

The committee was presented with two petitions about the application, one in favour and one opposed.

The one in favour was signed by 11 people, who said they were homeowners who lives in Dunoon Drive and Bute Road, the two streets around the development site.

Their letter stated: "It is an eyesore. We agree with the proposal as it will improve the look of the estate.

"It will help regenerate the area."

The petition from the Shadsworth Neighbourhood Centre, said many residents had doubts about the scheme because it would increase traffic in the area. Some residents, the petition stated, thought the land would be used for a playground.

But the committee was told planning permission being granted was dependent on the developer, named as a Mr T L Smith, providing money towards a new play area.

Residents are divided on the prospect of a new block of flats on the estate.

Leslie Jones, 41, of Bute Road, a barman who used to work in the Rover's Return, said: "Anything has got to be better than the eyesore that's there at the moment. There are always problems with kids getting in and causing damage."

William Austin, 79, also of Bute Road, who has lived on the estate for 46 years, added: "I know a lot of people living directly opposite the site are opposed to the flats."

Michael Jewell, 54, of Dunoon Drive, said: "I do not think for one minute any flats will be built there, I think the developer wants planning permission to increase the value and then it will be sold off to the highest bidder."