PLANS to develop a controversial Rossendale shopping centre are set to be redesigned.

But councillors have hit out at the length of time the Valley Centre project has been taking, and are concerned the site will soon become another half completed venture in Rossendale.

Plans to build 116 apartments, shops, restaurants, a cafe quarter and a 369-space car park at the Rawtenstall site were passed by councillors in February.

Developers Ashbourne subsequently announced that it was reducing the number of apartments in the scheme due to the financial downturn.

Last week a meeting was held between the developers and Rossendale Council where it was revealed that the plans would be redesigned and resubmitted.

Coun Alyson Barnes said: “We are delighted things are moving again but it just seems to be one delay after another.

“Goodness knows when we’ll see the spades in the ground.

“There are quite a few projects that have still not been finished in the region due to extensive delays, including half a college awaiting completion.”

Councillor Jason Gledhill added: “The plan to build extensive apartments had to be drastically altered due to the current financial climate.

“We appreciate that the site is currently an eye sore for the people of Rawtenstall, and our priority is to get the ball rolling as soon as possible.”

Though it had been announced that works were to start next spring, the parties involved in the project now feel this was optimistic, said Coun Gledhill.

He added: “We have to acquire the rights for demolition before we can start developing.

“For this to happen we have to communicate with the three tenants who are currently there.”