DEVELOPERS have been given permission to build a major shopping complex in Blackburn despite fears over the impact on town centre trade and traffic.

The Town's Moor centre will be built at the site of the former British Gas works in Russell Street and is expected to create 120 new jobs.

Creswell Estates and British Gas say a string of national retailers have already shown interest in the project including Argos, Blockbuster Video and Boots.

Town's Moor has been designed to link-up with the shopping centre on the opposite side of Park Road, which includes Asda.

The planning sub-committee passed the application but added a series of conditions linked to traffic, landscaping and parking. Coun Andy Kay said: "Obviously we want to minimise the disruption to traffic in the area during construction and once the building is complete.

"There are three major roads running alongside the site and if there are any delays in that area, traffic can build up into the town centre."

A traffic survey of the area is being carried out by Lancashire County Council and recommendations are likely to include changes to road lay-outs and traffic signals.

The council also wants the number of parking spaces at the centre reduced from 244 to 226 and landscaping to be added to the plans.

And a legal agreement will be drawn up with the developers limiting what kind of goods can be sold at the site.

The five-year agreement has been designed to protect business in Blackburn after opposition from market and town centre trades.

Deputy Prime Minister and Environment Minister John Prescott will have the final say on the scheme.

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