PLANS have been submitted for 61 flats to be built on the site of the former Darwen Health Centre.

And the scheme for the Union Street site has received a cautious welcome from Darwen councillors who say increasing town-centre living would be good for the local economy and the area itself.

Campbell Chapman Mann Ltd, of Eccles, Manchester, submitted the proposal for 61 flats over four storeys.

Some 17 one-bedroom and 44 two-bedroom residential apartments are planned.

Coun Dave Smith, of Sunnyhurst ward, said: "I have written to the planning department with my position on the application.

"I am not against residential areas in the town centre. If people are going to live in the town centre it can only be good for the area and good for the shops.

"The flats would also have a health centre, fire station and police station nearby.

"Some people thought that an application for shops would be submitted.

"I think the plans need tweaking, but I think the flats will be good for the town centre."

Coun Paul Browne, of Sudell ward, said: "I am keeping an open mind about this.

"I want the area to be developed. I am not against them but want to see the plans.

"I want to make sure the development is right for the town. I think it will get the backing of the people. I am sure a lot will agree with it. People will only be two minutes from the town centre for shopping."

The application will be discussed in detail by the borough planning committee before a decision is made.

The health centre closed last year when the new £7.3million state-of-the-art replacement in Police Street opened.