A CONTROVERSIAL scheme to convert Barnoldswick's former town hall into a pub has taken another step forward.

A planning application to convert the building, on Jepp Hill, and build a conservatory extension to the rear has been submitted to Pendle Council by pub company Inns and Leisure Ltd.

The company has already been granted a licence to sell alcohol on the premises, despite objections from local residents, councillors and the police.

The main concern of the objectors was that Barnoldswick town centre was already over-provided with licensed premises.

Inns and Leisure Ltd has said the town hall would be a different kind of pub to others in the area, catering to a more mature clientele and with no loud music, weekend discos and so on.

However, objectors fear it may start out that way but quickly become another "disco pub" if that's where the money is.

The planning application is due to be considered by Pendle's West Craven committee when it next meets on September 1.

Councillors will be under pressure to turn down the proposal, but they can only do so if there are genuine planning grounds to support a refusal.

Otherwise the applicant could appeal and, if a planning inspector ruled that the council was unreasonable in refusing permission, it could have to pay substantial costs running into thousands of pounds.

The forthcoming meeting of the West Craven committee will be held at Rainhall Road School, in Barnoldswick, starting at 7pm.

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