Plans to create a mixed use community centre in Cottam have been submitted to Preston City Council.

The proposed development site is currently vacant and lies to the east of Haydock Lane alongside Cottam Community Centre, the Co-op supermarket and Cottam Primary School.

The application seeks permission to form a three-storey building holding four ground floor commercial units and nine apartments across the first and second floor levels.

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A planning report states: “The mix of uses will permit for the creation of a community hub that serves the surrounding Cottam area.

“A large amount of recent residential development in Cottam has not been met by the necessary provision of local services, a shortcoming which this proposal looks to address.”

The first and second floors of the proposed L-shaped building would both hold two bedroom and one bedroom apartments.

The second-floor apartments would have outside balcony spaces, with the first-floor apartments provided with juliet balconies.

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On-site parking spaces would be available creating a total of nine resident spaces and 11 commercial spaces. The development would also provide outside and indoor cycle parking spaces.

The limited parking spaces has been proposed to help unit occupiers, and their employees and residents to travel by means other than the private car and to reduce the demand for single occupant car travel and car parking.

If plans are approved, there will be a loss of some trees currently on site, that are primarily of a low quality.

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The applicant, Mrs Denise Carroll, aims to provide access for all.

The design and access statement prepared by architects RPS Design Group said: “Pedestrian access within the building will be designed to meet the needs of disabled people, creating a barrier free environment.

“It is proposed that pedestrian entrance points will comply with all relevant standards including layout, lighting and signage.”

Another planning document states: “The proposal looks to build upon the existing community uses on adjacent land and round off development of what has become a valuable local centre.

“There would be an economic boost through the development of new homes and introduction of local businesses to the area, as well as supporting existing businesses and suppliers during construction.”

To view the full proposals visit the Preston City Council website.

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