PROPOSALS to turn a part of Burnley's industrial past into a 'city farm' are set to be discussed next week.

A former coal yard, off Oswald Street, has been earmarked by the council as a site for the community farm.

Sheep, pigs and hens could be kept at the site, with plants, herbs and vegetables also being grown there.

Members of the council's executive committee will discuss the plans at a meeting next week. They hope the farm will be used by schools and families and the proposals will create jobs for the town.

The coal yard site was bought by the council in 1998 for £198,456, but is currently a 'drain on resources.' Last year £6,994 was spent on repairs and maintenance.

Councillor Roger Frost said: "This is an excellent proposal that would allow the land in Oswald Street to be transformed into a small community farm and garden close to the local community, existing allotments and local primary schools.

"It would be regularly used by local people and schools, allowing children and adults to get involved with growing plants, herbs and vegetables and looking after animals such as rabbits, hens and sheep."

The plans could also include a number of different facilities such as a community garden, children's play area, a cafe and a schools environmental education centre. A training centre and jobs could also be created.

And links to the town's historical past would also be included. Coun Frost added: "We will also be looking at some farm work which would be both pastoral and arable.

"People are not used to arable farming in Burnley, but in the past, Burnley produced its own fruit and vegetables."

The proposal for an urban farm was put forward by local residents during a consultation exercise that took place in Daneshouse and Stoneyholme.

The council will carry out further consultation with local people in the near future.