BOSSES of Accrington's Arndale Centre are planning to spend more than £300,000 on improvements.

New signs have gone up at the mall and further work to improve the toilets and the multi-storey car park is also in the pipeline.

David Jones, centre manager, said: "The next step would be to look at spending a substantial amount on improving the car park, up to a quarter of a million pounds."

He added that the investment in the shopping centre reflected the money being spent on improving other parts of the town, including Broadway.

The news comes after plans were revealed for phase two in the redevelopment of Broadway and has been welcomed by Hyndburn Council and traders.

Bill Huntley, the town centre manager, said: "The owners of the Arndale are looking at making substantial improvements, including signage in Broadway and Union Street, which are key areas of the town.

"Also, there are four empty shops there, but three of those are under offer so we will only be left with one. In comparison to malls in other towns that is a really good performance."

Hyndburn Chamber of Trade president Peter Aspin said: "Any investment in the town is beneficial but the centre is really crucial because it is bang in the centre.

"Plans are also in the pipeline to carry the redevelopment of Broadway up to the end, which is also good news. If other businesses see improvements being made it gives them confidence to come into the town.

"It is also good for shoppers and keeps them coming back."