A MULTI-million pound scheme to change a derelict eyesore in the centre of Burnley into a hotel, restaurant, pub, nightclub and recording studios is set to receive the go-ahead.

Burnley Council planners have recommended the plan by former nightclub boss Mike Cookson.

Proctor's Mill, in Hammerton Street, was granted permission in 1997 to become a hotel, nightclub, restaurant and pub.

The new application includes plans for two recording studios, a penthouse flat and staff car parking.

Mr Cookson was formerly the boss of Panama Joe's (now Genesis) and Mean Cat Daddies in Burnley.

He left the premises last year when it was sold to Northern Leisure for a reported £1.5 million.

The officer's report, which will be discussed at a meeting on Thursday, says: "The property occupies an important 'gateway' position into the town centre with implications for regeneration of a wider area.

"The proposal will preserve and bring back into re-use this Listed Building in a conservation area, much of which has been derelict for many years.

"Repairs to the existing building are to be carried out, including repairs to the roof, to two unstable walls and the rebuilding of part of the north gable.

"New windows and doors are required throughout."

The plan for 20 staff car parking spaces involves the removal of four trees and, in recommending delegated approval, the officer says the applicant will be asked to reduce the number of spaces.

The project could be eligible for European and conservation area grants.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.