AN EYESORE former pub site in Burnley is set to be transformed with the construction of a centre for the homeless and vulnerable.

If passed by planners, housing giant Calico plans to open the new complex at the former Mitre Hotel site, at the corner of Westway and Trafalgar Street, by the middle of 2017.

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The move would see the Calico-run Elizabeth Street Project, based in an old technical school dating back to 1862, replaced with a modern 30-bedroom building, with extra space for training to help young people and families get back on their feet.

County Councillor Tony Martin, whose Burnley Central West division covers the former hotel, has welcomed the prospect, which would see the rundown Mitre used latterly as a taxi office, pulled down.

And it is felt the landmark structure, to be constructed by the Calico group’s own development arm Ringstones, will be a more appropriate introduction to the Weavers’ Triangle area of the town, which has been regenerated under the On The Banks initiative.

Helen Thompson, Calico’s customer services director, said: “For years now, thousands of people have benefitted from support, emergency housing and help to find new homes through the Elizabeth Street Project.

“However that facility is not ideal due to its layout.

“A brand new, custom-built project to help people get back on their feet with rehousing, support and employment training will be a fantastic resource for the area.

“We will also make sure we work closely with key partners to provide services people may need and take referrals for those who would benefit from our programmes.”

Thousands have been through Elizabeth Street’s doors since the housing association took over the building in 2004 but the potential for expansion there has remained limited.

Mick Cartledge, the borough council’s community services director, said: “We are pleased to see Calico’s exciting new plans for this important service and the development of this flagship building will also greatly improve the physical environment of this part of the town.”

Cllr Martin, who also represents Trinity ward on Burnley Council, said: “The site has been a bit of a dump for a number of years and has been used for a number of purposes so it will be nice to see something pleasant take its place.

“As the borough and county councillor for the area, I would support this in principle, it’s something that we need to do if we are serious about creating attractive gateways into Burnley.

“The only thing I would be concerned about is saving the mural of Sean Dyche on the side of the building on Mitre Street.”

The current accommodation at Elizabeth Street, supported by key workers, only offers 16 single rooms for people presenting as homeless, though there are four family flats there also.

The site would remain operational until any new facility opened.

The number of homeless applications in Burnley during 2015 actually dropped to 40, from 42 the previous year. But the number of households living in temporary accommodation had risen from six to 11.