A LEADING councillor has hailed plans to rejuvenate Blackburn's rundown pavilions as a positive step in a new-look town centre.

And Coun Ashley Whalley, executive member for regeneration at Blackburn with Darwen Council, refuted claims that the proposals could actually lead to the three Grade II listed pavilions crumbling.

The planning and highways committee has approved plans to redevelop the buildings, which date back to the 1800s.

The three units -- once used as a bank, cafe and shop -- have been derelict for more than a decade and were considered for demolition five years ago.

Councillors then opted to try and find a buyer for the pavilions but it was only in April this year that Blackburn Cathedral stepped forward and bought the units, which are adjacent to the cathedral precinct.

Under their scheme, two new glass structures would be erected between the pavilions -- which in turn would be renovated inside -- to create one, long building.

The cathedral has lined up Northcote Manor chef Nigel Haworth to run a bistro in the new-look building, expected to cost more than £1million.

One objector to the project, building consultant Ron Crane, told the meeting he feared extra pressure on the existing buildings created by the new structure, and the removal of a vault in the basement of one of the units, could lead to a collapse.

But Coun Whalley said: "Many hundreds of hours of officer time have been spent on this project and I would be amazed if they had overlooked something as basic as this. A similar amount of time has been spent by cathedral staff."

He added: "Even if they were to collapse, which I doubt, we would have a duty to rebuild them to their former glory.

"I am delighted to recommend we accept these proposals. This is an excellent project which typifies what we are aiming to do in Blackburn."

"A high-quality end-user has been attracted to this site.

"The artist's impressions look excellent and we are delighted by the whole project, which sits well with the redevelopment of Church Street."

The pavilions will overlook the new pedestrianised Church Street, which will have pavement cafes, lavish shrubberies and unique artwork.