PLANS for a new car supermarket next to the M65 is set to bring 73 jobs to East Lancashire.

Blackburn-based car finance firm Haydock, has been given planning permission to build its proposed car outlet next to Junction Four.

It is hoped the new site, when operational, will have an annual turnover of £50 million, with 73 jobs being created in the first year.

Managing director and founder of the firm Jon Wilkinson, said today he aimed to create a 'one-stop shop' for car-buyers, mixing the firm's existing finance services with a car showroom.

He pledged to help boost the local economy by employing local firms to build the new site.

Mr Wilkinson said: "The number of jobs we have said we will be creating does not reflect the benefit accruing to other local businesses and suppliers.

"Haydock already uses local suppliers for most of its services and this will increase when the construction project commences, with Haydock inviting local businesses to tender for design and construction work through to logistical and support services as the business grows.

"The site is expected to attract more than 50 per cent of its customers from beyond the Blackburn area."

The firm recently announced it was in negotiation to purchase existing car supermarket operations, including Central Cars in Accrington.

The other is Syd Abrams in Manchester.

Mrn Wilkinson added: "Haydock's aim is to diversify our core business activities to incorporate the vehicle supply market.

"We intend to position ourselves as a one-stop shop for all vehicle and motor finance needs."

"Our company has always sought to recruit local people and use local suppliers so that our success can benefit the local economy too."

Haydock Finance was founded in 1980 to service the financial requirements of a small group of Blackburn-based motor dealers.

The firm has expanded its business interest and now specialise in the provision of finance and funding for consumer and cooperate clients.

Originally based in Brownhill, the company relocated to Greenbank in 1998.

The firm has offices in Burnley, Bristol, Torquay and Scotland. The head office in Blackburn employs around 150 people, around 80 per cent of who are from Blackburn.