COUNCIL bosses have hit back at a report about the number of empty shops in East Lancashire.

Figures released by the Local Data Company, which tracks retail trends in the UK, showed more than a quarter of shops in Blackburn were empty last year – the national average was 14.3 per cent.

The report shows Blackburn had the fourth worst rate for empty shops in the country and predicted the state of local high streets would continue to worsen over the coming year.

In November, the rate of empty shops in Burnley stood at 17.3 per cent, 0.4 per cent less than the figure for the previous six months.

Coun Dave Harling, Blackburn with Darwen Council executive member for regeneration, said the figures were based on old information and the situation was not as bad as the survey portrayed.

He said: “Obviously the people behind this survey are totally out of touch with what’s happening in Blackburn.

"We physically check vacant shops in the town centre every quarter and we know the figures are wrong.

“Our new Mall and fantastic market are drawing visitors in from across Pennine Lancashire.”

He said the actual figure was about 9.3 per cent and four per cent in The Mall, which had experienced a record number of visitors over the Christmas period.

Colin Hills, Burnley town centre manager, said despite the large number of vacant shops, investors were showing interest in expanding in the town.

He said: “Charter Walk shopping centre recently got the go-ahead for a £3million investment, indicating its confidence in Burnley.

"Planning permission has been granted to develop a £40million retail complex in Curzon Street that will expand the shopping centre.

“Times are tough everywhere and we’re not immune, but Burnley Council will continue to work with businesses to make Burnley an attractive place to shop, visit and work.”

Ribble Valley Council said it was aware of 17 vacant shops.

In Pendle the rate was just over 11 per cent but in Hyndburn, the figure was much higher at 22.5 per cent.