A heritage-listed town centre complex which once housed law courts and a cop shop has been earmarked for use as offices, a cafe and 25 flats.

The former Accrington Magistrates' Court and Police Station, in Spring Gardens off Manchester Road, would be subject to a £2 million redevelopment if a planning application by Ibrahim Janneh is approved by Hyndburn Council.

Supporting documents with the proposal say the scheme would preserve the Grade II Listed building and many of its heritage features while creating a viable business, social and residential hub.

It could include a boutique mini-hotel.

The documents say: "This building is a Grade II Listed structure a fine example of 1930s classicist revivalism designed by Sir Percy Thomas.

"It is a part of a larger complex conceived by the same architect which includes the adjoining fire station grouped around a central service courtyard.

"The police station and law courts building has not been in use since 2016.

"The adjoining fire station was converted to offices and warehousing in 2017.

"The proposal is for the conversion and partial demolition of the listed building to convert to residential and commercial use and thereby secure a sustainable future.

"In broad terms the cellular accommodation to the periphery of the building is proposed to be modified for residential use.

"The central courtyard within the building is to be retained and utilised as a common amenity space for the apartments and will be landscaped..

"It is proposed to retain both the court rooms and the entrance hallway and cells intact.

"Initially they will be utilised initially as a café /workspace area and for educational and filming purposes.

"We are currently investigating future potential uses which are: café space with facilities for work stations; meeting rooms for functions; boutique mini hotel with dining space lounge and cell bedroom accommodation; educational events; film and theatre; gymnasium,

"The fixed and unfixed furniture within the courtrooms is to be relocated within the building.

"The main hallway will initially be used as a cafe space for use by the public and residents creating a viable business and social hub.

"The appearance of the existing building is almost completely unaltered.

"The proposals are a positive contribution to the regeneration of Accrington and secure the future in a sustainable manner of this valuable architectural heritage asset.

"Public access to the café area will help promote locally an understanding both of the architectural value and social history of the building.

"The new housing provided will be a significant addition to Accrington's housing stock.

"What is being proposed is a high-quality residential-led mixed-use scheme which will bring a currently redundant Grade II listed building back to life and retain its future for many years to come."