A TOWN centre shopping block is set to be transformed into a multi-million pound retail and office complex.

Development giant Hurstwood - which owns the former Apollo cinema in King William Street, Blackburn - has confirmed it is in talks with traders in the adjoining block, which extends into Town Hall Street.

It is working with Blackburn with Darwen Council on the scheme but insisted the plans were at an early stage.

Council officials have refused to reveal details of the plans at this stage.

But hairdresser Nigel Womack said he had been approached by Rossendale-based Hurstwood with a view to relocating.

The 54-year-old, who owns Nigel's Cutting Shop on Town Hall Street, said he had already been shown "fantastic" plans for a six-storey, glass-fronted centre.

He said: "They are massive plans. There would be seven to eight shops, all brand new, with glass frontage.

"They want to expand the block onwards and upwards.

"I own my shop, so they can't do it without my permission, I know that.

"But I am happy people want to spend money in Blackburn, and I wouldn't be against it if they made it worth my while."

Coun Alan Cottam, in charge of regeneration at the council, said: "It's in the hands of Hurstwood.

"The council owns some of the land, but Hurstwood owns the cinema.

"We own two or three of the shops in there so we will have an input when it comes to the official plans.

"They are talking about an arcade, with offices above, but I have not seen any artist's impressions yet.

"Clearly it is a key site in the town centre and has enormous potential.

"However, it is too early for us to give any further details."

A private property developer is thought to own soem of the other shops.

Phil Ainsworth, of the town centre marketing committee, said: "I knew something was being planned there, but I wasn't aware of the details.

"I hope they retain some of the retail there - a mixture of office and retail would be good."

And chamber of trade chairman David Cottam added: "It's been earmarked for a while, but I'm not sure what the exact plans are."

It is understood that the develop will not include the Grapes Pub and car park, Northgate.

Hurstwood's Alastair Procter said: "In the short term there are various ownership issues that need to be addressed and we are currently in talks to assess the situation.

"In the long term, we are actively working with our partners in the town on what would be a phased redevelopment of the block for shops and offices."

Mr Procter said Hurstwood and the council had a "shared vision" for the site.