A FORMER pub could be turned into shops and apartments if town hall planners give it the go-ahead.

Permission is needed from Bolton Council to transform the former Hare and Hounds pub in Bury Road, Breightmet, into a mixed residential and trade building.

Praq Luhar, of Dobson Road, Bolton, has applied for the ground floor to be developed into four shop units and the first-floor to be converted into seven self-contained apartments.

The pub’s future became uncertain in December, 2010, when SRM Properties tabled plans to demolish it and build 12 affordable houses in its place.

But that plan was withdrawn after several neighbours objected.

The pub closed soon after and SRM came up with a second proposal — to build an extension on to the pub so it could be turned into three self-contained commercial units.

The council granted permission, but work has not yet started and now Mr Luhar has put forward the latest plan. Mr Luhar, who is the director of Linx Construction Ltd, was on holiday and unavailable for comment.

A spokesman for the company said they did not yet know which firms might occupy the shop units.

Customers would be able to use 12 new parking spots.

A report to the council said: “The building has fallen into a state of disrepair and requires work in order to make it habitable again.

“The retention and redevelopment of the existing building will enhance the surrounding environment without having an adverse impact on the surrounding development.”

The council is aiming to reach a decision by April 16.