A MULTI-million pound refurbishment of Hounds Hill shopping centre is a step closer to becoming reality.

The centre's landlord, Pearl Assurance, has submitted planning application for a £2.8m facelift.

If given the go-ahead, they hope to start work on the 18-year-old premises in January next year.

The centre - which houses big-name stores such as Boots and Mothercare - was refurbished in 1986, eight years after it was built. But Pearl Assurance have identified the need for substantial alterations. These include:

A new covered mall, shop and three kiosks in Victoria Street;

A fully-enclosed lobby at the Winifred Street entrance;

A dramatic first-floor restaurant and gallery overlooking the main shopping area;

New decoration in the mall;

The repair and improvement of the existing terrazzo floor.

Shopping centre manager Terry Platt said: "We are very excited about the refurbishment which will improve the centre for shoppers and retailers alike.

"The new look will make shopping at Hounds Hill an even more enjoyed experience."

Nigel Hansen, Blackpool's town centre manager, agreed. He said: "Working on the assumption that the planning application is approved, this will be a great private sector investment.

"I am delighted that town centre landlords are putting so much effort into improving their premises.

"It will certainly attract more residents and tourists to shop in the town centre.

"This June, we are hoping to switch on the new closed-circuit television system which will give the landlords added reassurance that their investments are protected."

Mr Hanson said private sector investment will boost the seven-year Single Regeneration Budget project which is set to bring £3.4m into the town.

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