PLANNING permission has been granted to build a 'unique' house on a controversial caravan site.

Blackburn with Darwen Council has approved John Loveridge's application for the four-bedroomed bungalow on the former Lawnmower Specialists site in Sandy Lane, Lower Darwen.

His previous proposals in 2014 to put four caravans plus a shower and toilet block on the site caused a storm of protest, and was refused by councillors in March 2015 - a decision confirmed by a government inspector.

Blackburn with Darwen Council planning officials approved a scaled back proposal for a private residential caravan site comprising of one static and three touring caravans and an amenity building in December 2016.

Documents supporting the application for the new house said: “The scheme proposals allow for the character and appearance of the area to be enhanced through the delivery of a unique housing development."

A report by planning officer Christian Barton says: "The application site is a small enclosed plot of land located within the settlement of Lower Darwen.

"Dwellings and garden areas surround to three sides with commercial buildings positioned to the northwest.

"The majority of the site is currently vacant and a storage building is located adjacent to the access gate.

"Timber-panelled fencing binds the site to three sides and land levels rise steeply to the south.

"This application involves the erection of a four-bedroom dormer bungalow and detached garage.

"The bungalow would have a footprint of circa 140 square metre and a dual-pitched roof up to 7.2metres in height.

"The dwelling would be finished with render, bricks and grey concrete tiles and fitted with grey uPVC/aluminium doors and windows.

"Timber cladding would be applied to the elevations of the rear kitchen area.

"Indicative landscaping is also detailed on the plans provided with areas of lawns, flags and tarmac hardstanding.

"Access would be maintained via Sangara Drive.

"The proposed dwelling would have a contemporary style through the use of modern design features, open glazed areas and an abundance of rooflights.

"When the varied nature of the surrounding properties is taken into account, the proposed dwelling would not appear unacceptably out of place.

"Subject to appropriate conditions, the proposal would be acceptable."

The approval has ten conditions attached.