MOVIEGOERS could be watching their favourite films in Blackburn's very own £6.5million cinema complex in a year's time, it was revealed today.

Permission was first granted two years ago for a major retail and cinema development in the Lower Audley area, promising 250 new jobs.

But since then, developers Peel Holdings have been locked in discussions with the council over what type of retail outlets should go on the site.

Those issues have now been resolved and Peel have submitted an amendment to the plans to the town hall.

If the proposals get the green light work could start on the land behind the railway station by the end of this year.

Matalan and Staples have now been named as two of the retailers moving on to the site and Peel are still in negotiations with a cinema operator about opening a 10 or 12 screen movie theatre on the development. The movie complex would be Blackburn, Hyndburn and Ribble Valley's first drive-in multiplex cinema.

Peel's planning consultant Gary Halman, of Manchester-based Insignia Richard Ellis, said: "The only difference to the plans is that we have added 17,000 sq feet of additional retail warehouse floor space to accomodate Matalan and Staples.

"Discussions are ongoing with a cinema operator and there will also be food and drink retail space. Subject to planning being granted then, we are hoping work on the first phase of the development will start late this year, with completion in six to nine months."

Peel already owns Blackburn's Ice Arena and it is hoped that the new complex could bring more than 250 jobs into the area.

Hairdresser Jeff Stone, of Darwen Street traders, said: "I think it is tremendous if this development is followed through. I think it is fantastic project and anything like this that will bring investment and jobs into town has got to be a good thing.

"I'm sure Blackburnians will support it and it will be a great success."