A FORMER nightclub could soon be transformed into 40 apartments.

Hyndburn Council has received an application to convert and extend the old Lar-de-dars club in Willow Street, Accrington, into a one and two-bedroom apartment complex.

The club closed in November last year after a major slump in business

Accrington-based DAC Architects, of Eagle Street, have submitted the application on behalf of Mr D Longworth of Poulton-le-Fylde.

If approved, the two-storey complex will include a courtyard and a roof-level walkway, and will see the premises expand from 1,632 square metres to 2,582 square metres, but it does not include additional parking facilities.

A spokesman for DAC Architects said: "Planners have not stipulated that these need to be included."

The owners and architects believe the apartments would be an attractive residence because they are close to transport links, shops and schools.

It is also hoped the new apartments would contribute to the regeneration of Accrington town centre by increasing the use of local facilities and generating more revenue in the town.

The building originally served as the home of Accrington Arts Club, and opened its doors as a nightclub in 1982 following a £1M refurbishment.

During its time as a nightclub it went by several names under various owners, and at its peak in the late 1980s it was the most popular club in Accrington.

Earlier this year Hyndburn Council installed a CCTV camera on Willow Street near the former club as part of a scheme to make the area safer.