TRADERS are planning to lodge formal objections against a proposal to open an alcohol and drug counselling service in the middle of a row of shops.

The row surrounds a planning application to transform the former Dawson's Music Centre in Standish Street, Burnley, after it was vacated by the musical instrument company last year.

The application to approve a change of use for the shop has been submitted to Burnley Council by Community Alcohol Services which is currently based in Bull Street.

Secretary of Burnley and District Chamber of Trade Rita Walsh said: "We will be sending in written formal objections to the plan.

"The premises are in a row of shops which would be ideal for something classy, but not this.

"I am not blaming the council, but we don't think it is the right place. I think we need to have more judgement about where places like this are sited.

"This is the middle of the secondary shopping parade in Burnley, in the middle of the retail sector and it is just not the right place for a service of this kind."

Although the centre currently provides counselling, help and advice for people who have a problem with alcohol, it is hoped the new centre would also help people with drug problems.

No one from the town centre management team would comment on the application.

Diane Ogden, district manager of Community Alcohol Services said the organisation would not comment on the matter unless the planning application went to an appeal, as it did not want to hinder its hopes for the Standish Street premises.