A “LANDMARK” pub could be turned into apartments if planners give the green light ahead.

The site, formerly the Rose and Crown, would be converted into five self-contained flats under plans submitted to Hyndburn Council.

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A car park would also be built next to the building to create more spaces and alterations would be made to existing access.

The vacant building in Union Road, known by locals as the Rose and Crown Pub, closed its doors 12 months ago.

Cllr Peter Britcliffe, who represents Oswaldtwistle, said: “It is a sad day for Oswaldtwistle that we face losing what was a landmark pub.

“It was once the most popular pub in the town and it’s a shame it was deteriorated before it closed.”

Proposals show that apartments would be created on the ground and first floors of the building, with both floors having common areas for access.

The entrance foyer will have two doors and post boxes for occupants of the five apartments.

Agent Stephen Bialecki, of Bialecki Ltd on behalf of applicant Malcolm Vaughan, said in the proposals: “The property has fallen victim of the current climate in the alcohol licensing trade as an unsustainable business.

“The development described will provide a good standard of living accommodation for future occupiers whilst raising no adverse impacts on its surroundings.

“Within the common area, a substantial staircase shall lead to a common area and apartments three to five; where the existing beer barrel store lies will be substantially demolished and converted into a communal storage room.”

Cllr Glen Harrison, who lives near to the former pub, said: “Living in the area, I have not heard express concerns about flats being built.

“The Rose and Crown is surrounded by a myriad of other pubs, including nearby Black Dog public house.

“People are used to pubs shutting down nowadays so I’m not sure how much it will affect the area.”

Further works to the property will include the current gravel driveway and vehicle access becoming a tarmacked surface, as well as an increase in parking spaces from four to 11.

However, Cllr Britcliffe added: “It is dreadful to see that there are plans to change the Rose and Crown into flats. This could, and should, still be the best pub in Oswaldtwistle.”