A DISUSED town centre church can look forward to a new lease of life - as a pub.

Council planners are being urged to allow a change of use of the Jireh Chapel in Boot Way, a Grade ll listed building.

But the recommendation to the planning committee comes despite objections from Burnley and District Historical Society.

They say a pub is an unsuitable place for such a building.

And they point out that there are already four other licensed premises in the area , rapidly becoming a noisy, litter-strewn eyesore.

But planning officers urge approval.

They say a public house is an appropriate use for a town centre building and a change of use could be the key to its future."

They add that the application does not call for changes to the appearance of the building.

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