COUNCILLORS will be asked to consider the effect a major new out-of-town retail park would have on town centre traders before deciding if the multi-million pound project can go ahead.

British Gas and Creswell Estates want to build six units on the former gas depot in Russell Street, Blackburn.

The site has already attracted interest from national retailers including Argos, Staples, PC World, Blockbuster Video, Pets at Home and Boots the Chemist.

The complex would have parking space for 244 cars and is expected to create 120 full and part-time jobs if given the go-ahead.

But plans have already attracted criticism from market traders in Blackburn who say the 64,500 sq ft development will destroy town centre shopping. A detailed report on the project will be discussed by Blackburn with Darwen Council's planning sub-committee on Thursday.

Councillors will be asked to consider the effect it will have on town traders.

The report says: "Recent studies by the council's retail consultant have concluded that while there may be capacity for expansion of bulky goods retail such as household goods and carpets, it is necessary to prevent sales of categories which would directly compete with existing town centre facilities.

"They recommended the exclusion of clothing, footwear, fashion accessories, smaller household and electrical items, children's wear, catalogue order goods and variety stores with health beauty, pharmaceutical and household ranges.

"These restrictions would exclude some of the potential occupiers referred to in the application and probably significantly reduce the site's attraction as a retail location."

If councillors approve the application, it will still have to be referred to Secretary of State John Prescott, before work starts.

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