The creation of a ground-breaking multi-million-pound new manufacturing and research centre in Darwen is set to move a step closer next week.

The development, on a five-acre site at Chapels, is set to include an Additive Manufacturing (3D Printing) Accelerator - the first-of-its-kind in the UK and backed by Sheffield University.

The project – supported by the £100 million Darwen Town Deal - has been brought forward by Barnfield Blackburn Ltd, a joint venture between Barnfield Group and Blackburn with Darwen Council.

On Thursday the borough's planning committee will be recommended to approve the blueprint for the centre on land off Goose House Land submitted in September 2023 with 27 conditions.

It is for the construction of a new manufacturing research centre along with 10 smaller industrial units with car parking and landscaping.

The recommendation for approval comes despite objections to the scheme over concerns about noise, traffic, impact on wildlife and the presence of Japanese Knotweed on the five-acre site.

In a report to councillors, planning manager Gavin Prescott says: "The proposal is in the form of a full planning application comprising of a major industrial/commercial development that seeks to deliver an Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre specialising in additive manufacturing (3D printing).

"A further 10 smaller units are proposed.

"In summary, an assessment of the application finds that the proposal is acceptable.

"The plot of land measures approximately two hectares in area and is a greenfield site covered largely by grass.

"The development will consist of two separate rectangular blocks.

"Block A includes the AMRC which will comprise of circa 1.090 square metres of main floor area with additional space towards an office, classroom, reception, and other ancillary facilities.

"This is the larger of the two blocks and adjoining the AMRC will be four other units which share a similar size.

"Turning to Block B, overall, there are six units to be formed with both end units significantly larger in terms of footprint than the four units in between which have a floor space of circa 240sqm.

"Within the Local Plan, the proposed development site is part of a wider allocation for employment of Chapels Park South, Darwen.

"It would assist in delivering economic growth, enhancing job opportunities and provide an increased choice to the market.

"The proposal would also help to support improvements for Darwen, in which investment in the town is a key principle.

"The site has been informally accessed over the years as a thoroughfare to and from Goose House Lane and Clover Terrace / Lightbown Street.

"However, it should be noted that there are no definitive public rights of way that cross the land, and therefore the development poses no undue concerns in this regard.

"The council's highways officer has sought a Section 106 contribution of £95,000 towards the Goose House Lane / Hollins Grove junction improvement scheme given the increased levels of activity expected resultant of the proposed development.

"An additional £5,000 has also been requested to fund the bus stop improvement works within the vicinity."