COMPETITION from neighbouring big cities has spurred on bosses at Preston's Fishergate Shopping Centre to submit plans to almost double the size of the city centre complex.

The multi million pound KG2 development would include about 180,000 sq ft of shops with plans for a new department store and new 24-hour multi-storey car park with 330 extra spaces.

The plans also include the modernisation of the Fishergate entrance with glass fronted shops to give the centre a brighter new look.

If approved by Preston City Council the new development should be complete by 2006.

Keith Mitchell, Fishergate Shopping Centre manager, said: "Preston's profile is improving considerably as a visitor destination within the north west and there is no reason why we can't begin to compete with Manchester and Liverpool.

"By bringing more new shops to the shopping centre we hope to create a gateway to the city from the railway station that the people of Preston can be proud of, as well as give them the kind of shopping experience that all our visitors deserve."

It is hoped the new development will create a glass-fronted extension in a triangular shape at the back of the centre, creating a corridor of shops from the Game computer store, ending with a circle of shops.

The planned three-storey car park, which will include a fourth underground level, will replace the flat car park at the back of the building and will include CCTV and security lighting.

Although the plans have yet to be scrutinised by planners, Mr Mitchell is hopeful a decision will be made in the next few months.

"We invest wholeheartedly in the council's vision," said Mr Mitchell. "We hope that by moving our plans forward and creating an enhanced and more vibrant impact on the high street, we are reflecting the aspirations of everyone living and working nearby to become a thriving city for the 21st century."

Carl Speight, city centre manager for Preston, supports the new look for the shopping centre.

"The city centre strategy advocates further development at the shopping centre," he said. "The architecture is very attractive and I think it will be a great thing for Preston."