Home Bargains Expected to Open in Former MFI Unit

A former MFI unit in a Whitebirk retail park is expected to get a new lease of life following Hyndburn Council's decision to grant permission to vary site use.

The change in approval means that Home Bargains can open in part of the empty unit on Whitebirk Drive, creating dozens of jobs.

A gym is expected to open in the remaining section of the unit.

Lancashire County Council has expressed concern over road safety and traffic lights in the area but have supported the decision on the basis that a solution will be agreed by developers and the council's highways department.

Local councillor Dave Parkins told local press: "I'm glad to see this is going to be redeveloped because it has been a mess for years.

"It's great Peel Holdings has taken the bull by the horns. Over the last few years, the park has been greatly improved and the old MFI is an eyesore so I welcome this and hopefully the site will come together and look a lot better than it has in the past."

Local councillor Paddy Short said: "As local councillors we want business, we want jobs and we want business rates so this is a no-brainer. It's a good project and good luck to them."

Councillor Eamonn Higgins, chairman of the committee, said: "Hyndburn is open for business. This centre is turning into quite a prosperous shopping area with Costa and Aldi. I welcome this development."

The store is expected to open in the autumn.

Source : Insight DIY Team 

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