PLANS to turn a former Little Lever pub into an office and flats have been refused by planning officials.

Hands-On Computer Solutions Ltd, which is currently based in Turton Road, submitted a planning application to Bolton Council to change the use of the Canary Tavern, in High Street.

They hoped to move to the former pub, having 'out grown' their current base and they suggested that the move could potentially create jobs.

The application also asked for permission to create two flats on the first floor, each with two bedrooms, a combined lounge/kitchen living space and a bathroom.

The plans were rejected as it was deemed that the flats would "fail to provide satisfactory living conditions for future occupants."

Planning officer Chris Hammersley said the main issue was that the size of one of the flats did not meet national standards.

In his planning report, he wrote: "The gross internal area of Flat A is approximately 54sqm.

"The National Space (Internal) Standards require a minimum of 61sqm space for one-storey flats with 2 bedrooms/3 persons, and at least 70sqm for one-storey flats with 2 bedrooms/4 persons.

"Therefore, the gross area of Flat A would not meet the National Internal Space Standards for one-storey flats with 2 bedrooms."

The Canary Tavern was closed in 2017 due to not being profitable and previous owner Mark Adams backed the plans, admitting that a change of use could "benefit the area".

Hands-On Computer Solutions Ltd has been approached for comment.