Houses to be built on 'eyesore' fly-tipping site

Affordable homes have been approved to be built on the site of a former school which had become an "eyesore" due to fly-tipping.

Councillors have given the green light to the redevelopment of the vacant Higher Croft site in Blackburn, which was once occupied by a school and care home.

Blackburn with Darwen Council said the 31 homes, off Crosby Road, will be a mix of bungalows, terraced homes and semi-detached houses. All will have affordable rent.

Labour councillor Jim Casey said: "This area has become a bit of an eyesore."

It was approved after developers promised to widen Crosby Road and its pavement as it had become a "rat run" for drivers.

Fellow Labour councillor Jim Shorrock said: "This is a good development for the Higher Croft area.

"It's affordable housing that is needed on brownfield land.

"I fully support it."

Planning manager Gavin Prescott said: "The plan aims to ensure that new development reflects the individual and collective character of areas of the borough and promotes high standards of design.

"As a scheme involving 100 per cent affordable homes, it is found to be acceptable owing to evident local demand."

The social housing estate will managed by Together Housing.

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