A FORMER church site with permission to knock down existing buildings and construct new homes failed to sell at auction.

The former St Chad’s church in Pleckgate Road, Blackburn, was up for grabs by Pugh Auctions in Salford earlier this week.

Blackburn with Darwen Council planners recently granted permission for developers to demolish the 19th century church buildings and put six semi-detached homes in its place.

Neighbours were consulted over the plans and five objections were received.

People living nearby raised concerns about the loss of the building, as well as the need to cut down trees to make way for the new homes.

Complaints about loss of privacy, inappropriate design and more congestion on the roads were also lodged. But despite concerns, officers granted the application using delegated powers.

The site was listed at a guide price of £375,000 but failed to attract interest from developers.

Case officer Nick Blackledge previously said: “A heritage impact assessment was submitted with the application, taking into account the heritage value of the buildings proposed to be demolished.

“Although they are not listed or within a Conservation Area, their heritage value has been appropriately recognised through submission of a heritage statement.

“No objection is offered by the council’s conservation consultee, in view of the public benefit arising from redeveloping the site.”