A CARAVAN-dweller has unveiled proposals for nine chalet-style lodges in a borough housing development hotspot.

Brian Quinn want to build the affordable homes on land at near his residence at The Clough of Cranberry Lane in Darwen.

Several housing developments are already scheduled for the area.

McDermott Homes have been working on a scheme for 138 homes on greenfield land at Kirkhams Farm, between Cranberry Lane and Jack Keys Lodge since 2018.

Mr Quinn has made a planning application for the novel custom-built properties to Blackburn with Darwen Council.

The first three chalets would be for himself and his family.

Darwen South Tory councillor Kevin Connor described the scheme as 'unusual' and 'interesting'.

His agent Colin Sharpe of Grindleton-based Gary Hoerty Associates says in a supporting letter: "The land on which the lodges are to be sited is within the Cranberry Lane Darwen Housing Allocation site.

"Residential development on this location is acceptable in principle.

"In view of the nature and topography of our client's portion of the allocated site, it is more appropriate for the development of lodges rather than traditional houses.

"We consider that the design and external appearance of the proposed chalets will result in an attractive development that will not, in any way, detract from the visual amenities of the locality.

"The proposal will also result in the provision of nine reasonably-priced homes that will be different from other dwellings in the locality thereby increasing the variety of dwelling types available to prospective purchasers.

"We consider that the position and design of the proposed units are appropriate to their setting.

"It is the applicant's intention that the first three units would be provided for himself and family members and the other six would be built to the external design shown on the submitted plans but with internal fittings to suit the requirements of the future owners/occupiers of the chalets.

"We therefore consider the proposal would assist in contributing to the council's self-build/custom-build register.

"There are no trees affected by the proposed chalets and the chalets are not sited within an area at risk of flooding."

Cllr Connor said: "This is certainly an unusual planning application.

"It is an interesting and idea for a different type of home in a housing development area.

"It is well worth looking at."