NATIONAL pub chain JD Wetherspoons has unveiled plans to invest £900,000 transforming three empty shops into a new pub.

The company says the project in Accrington could create 25 new jobs.

Eddie Gershon, a spokesman for the company, said Wetherspoons had its heart set on the development and was seeking planning permission to transform three former retailing units on The Broadway.

It would be the company's first freehouse in Hyndburn, adding to the 35 pubs already operating throughout Lancashire .

But the process could take up to a year, with up to three months to finish the planning permission process, at least two months to complete the license applications and then another six months to convert the premises into the well known pub brand.

Mr Gershon said: "Accrington does not have a JD Wetherspoon and as part of our policy of opening 100 new pubs throughout the UK every year, we though it would be a good place to look.

"The fact that the area has suffered economically doesn't bother us at all and we would like to see ourselves as a catalyst for new business."

Property agents working for Wetherspoons had spotted the premises at The Broadway after a nine-month search and suggested the company seek planning permission to develop the site.

And even if the company's attempt failed, Mr Gershon said it would have no hesitation in trying to find another spot.

He said: "We have our heart set on Accrington and won't give up until we find a place to operate from.

"The new pub will be committed to supporting local beers and we hope to be in business as soon as possible."

Councillor Jean Battle, whose Spring Hill ward would house the development, welcomed the proposals.

She said: "The town needs investment and the prospect of 25 new jobs is also quite exciting,

"Wetherspoon has a really good name for its beers I think the development sounds like a good idea."