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Developer pushes to sell shops plan
From the archive, first published Thursday 9th Mar 2006.
DEVELOPERS have launched a campaign to win round protesters who fear a rejuvenated out-of-town shopping centre will kill trade in Accrington.
Peel Holdings has already had its proposals to revamp the Peel Centre, at Whitebirk, blocked once by Hyndburn Council over claims it would be the "death knell" for the town's retailers.
Next, Boots, Asda Living and the Arcadia group, which owns Dorothy Perkins and Burtons, have agreed terms with the developer to move to the site to trade alongside MFI, Currys and Carpet World.
Peel Holdings claims the revamp will also create 500 new jobs.
It resubmitted a revised planning application at the end of last year and is holding a three-day exhibition, starting today, to give the public a say on its proposals.
The company wants to spend £26million improving the retail park, near Hyndburn's border with Blackburn, which it claims is deteriorating.
But to fund the transformation it needs to re-classify the land from just "bulky goods" sales to a mixed use, which would allow for smaller outlets, traditionally found in town centres, to open.
The company claims improvements would stop shoppers travelling to retail parks in Bolton and Preston.
It also believes a proposed bus service connecting the retail park and Accrington town centre would encourage shoppers to spend their money in both places.
Gareth Finch, from Peel Holdings, which is headed by Rossendale man John Whittaker, said: "This is an exciting opportunity to bring investment, jobs and improved shopping choice to Hyndburn and East Lancashire generally.
"The "do nothing" approach is not an option as people will continue to travel beyond Accrington and Blackburn to access the type of shops they want. The upgrading of Whitebirk is a local alternative just waiting to happen."
The plans blocked by Hyndburn Council, were also opposed by Hyndburn and District and Blackburn Chambers of Trade, Blackburn with Darwen Council and the owners of The Mall in Blackburn town centre.
The exhibition stand will be between PC World and Allied Carpets at the retail park on today, from noon to 8pm, on Friday, from 11am to 4pm, and on Saturday, from noon to 6pm.
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