PLANS to transform a derelict ballroom, popular in the 1960s, into an electronics factory has been given the go-ahead.

Alicja Kay, Managing Director of Accrington-based Hawk Electronics, said she was delighted Hyndburn Council's development services committee had accepted her proposals to utilise the neighbouring Arcadian ballroom, on Knowlmere Street.

Mrs Kay pledged to preserve the original character of the building, which was popular as a rock and roll venue in the sixties and was the first in the area to have amplified music.

In recent years it was used as a dance school but fell into disrepair when the school moved out a year ago.

Mrs Kay said earlier this month she wanted to demolish the wall between the two buildings to diversify her firm's operations with the potential of creating more jobs.

Hawk Electronics builds circuit boards for customers including the Ministry of Defence, Siemens and Ferranti, and currently employs 50 people.

Mrs Kay said: "The work will probably start in January and I am delighted to hear my application for planning permission has been accepted.

"We are aware of its importance and I will upgrade the property, repair the windows, and keep the original wooded floor.

"It will not be damaged because I realise the place has quite a history and am amazed how many people have heard of it."

Coun Len Dickinson, 67, used the ballroom in its 1960s heyday. He said: "It's a sad day because it was so popular as a ballroom, but I'm also delighted it won't go to rack and ruin. Mrs Kay said she would look after it and I see no reason to doubt her.

"Once upon a time you could go dancing in Accrington every day of the week at the Conservative Club, Cannon Street, the Ritz on Paradise Street, which is now New Era Centre, and the Arcadian. St Mary Magdalen's Church, Devonshire Street, used to have a dance there every week too.

"I remember going to 'bop' at the Arcadian but now there is very little like this. Indeed dancing seems to be a dying art. It will be missed by many people all over the borough."