FRESH proposals for a multi-million pound leisure scheme which would bring more than 300 new jobs to East Lancashire were revealed today.

Plans include a "centre-piece" 10-screen multiplex cinema, restaurants, drive-in fast food bars, family entertainment centre and night club at Whitebirk - and a cinema, restaurant and fast food outlet in Accrington town centre.

A similar leisure-park bid at Whitebirk's Greenbank Business Park was abandoned in 1991 due to the recession.

Developers Kingspark Developments Limited have been chosen from four bidders to work on the Blackburn City Challenge project at the Blackburn and Hyndburn Borough owned 10-acre Greenbank site at junction six on the M65.

If approved, it would be linked to the Hyndburn Borough Council scheme in Accrington.

The developer's detailed proposals will now be progressed by both local authorities and a detailed planning application is to be submitted to Hyndburn planners.

Blackburn Borough Council Leader Malcom Doherty, said the scheme would be a major boost for the region.

He added: "I am delighted to see progress on another City Challenge development which will help to regenerate the region by bringing much-needed new jobs and leisure facilities to East Lancashire."

Jeremy Banks, of Chesterton, who acted for Blackburn Borough Council, said: "This will undoubtedly act as a catalyst for further developments within Greenbank."

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