A PLAN to build a mini shopping centre in North Valley Road, Colne, could be on the cards even though Pendle's economic experts are less than thrilled by the idea.

Halfords, Great Mills and McDonalds are three of the household names involved, as are a carpet company and electrical goods dealers.

The Sanderson Bramall Motor Group wants to develop the site of Smith and Nephews Stonebridge Mill and is expected to be given the go ahead for one of its schemes tonight (Thursday).

A separate plan to build a car showroom and workshop off New Market Street looks set for approval.

However, planners want councillors to defer making any decision about the future of the majority of the land.

The site covers land between Windy Bank and New Market Street. The developers want 5 retail stores - covering more than 5,500 square metres - and including a garden centre and DIY store, a car showroom, car wash, drive-through fast food outlet and two industrial units. There are also plans for two rows of houses.

The planners say the final decision should wait until February 6, giving them time to have further talks with the developers and to look at the impact of the shopping centre on trade in town.

Other topics for discussion are financial links between Pendle and the developer.

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