SWEEPING plans to redevelop and modernise Blackburn's shopping centre were last night given the go-ahead by the council.

The Mall, which runs Blackburn Shopping Centre, plans to build 42 new retail units in an extension which would replace Lord Square and redesign the centre's entrances.

Almost 300 new parking spaces will be created, but the developer has been told to redraw plans for a replacement clock tower in King William Street.

Last night councillors welcomed the plans, declaring they will let the town compete commercially with its rivals.

Coun Andy Kay, the council's portfolio holder for regeneration, told a meeting of the planning committee: "In truth this is what we have been fighting for for many years now. We have finally got a developer willing to invest in the shopping centre.

"It's extremely important we get this done now and fight off the competition that is perfectly obviously happening around us."

The controversial existing clocktower will be demolished and replaced, although developers have been told to go back to the drawing board by the council to come up with a better design.

The centre's entrances will be redesigned and the whole centre brought up to date with new building materials. The developers will also be tied to an agreement with the council to contribute financially to highways improvements to help cope with increased traffic flow in the area.

Before the development can actually go ahead the government must give its approval, but according to the council's regeneration chief, Adam Scott, the plan should not be opposed.

He said: "I don't think we will see any objection to this from the secretary of state. This is exactly in accordance with national and regional policies."

Councillor Kay said: "I appreciate the efforts that have been made by the Mall corporation.

"I am very pleased that we have been able to get to this stage.

"It has to go ahead because it is in the interests of Blackburn with Darwen."