FASHION giant Boohoo could bring more than 1,000 jobs to Burnley, the Lancashire Telegraph can reveal.

Earlier this week the online retail lodged proposals with the borough council for a second major extension to its site off Widow Hill Road.

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But it has now emerged that the proposals, for a 143,000 square foot complex, could see the outfit become the borough’s largest private-sector employer.

Council leader Cllr Mark Townsend said: “Boohoo came to us some time ago and outlined their exciting plans for the site.

“It is clear that the company wants to build on their record of rapid growth in Burnley and just goes to show what a fantastic place Burnley is.”

Neighbours had voiced concerns about the height of the original £14million landmark development, which can be seen across the town, complaining that it blocked mobile reception.

But Cllr Townsend said he was convinced that any logistical concerns could be tackled over the latest addition, which is 75 feet high, as part of the planning process.

Agents for the firm have told planners that they will exceed capacity at the existing premises by October 2018 and they are considering greater automation within the Burnley plant.

Currently Boohoo is home to 1,642 employees, across various shifts - but if their present growth trajectory is maintained this could rise to 2,686 by 2023.

And in order to maintain the stock selection and distribution technology, which would form the backbone of the operation, at least 138 of those new opening would be for skilled or semi-skilled engineers and technicians.

Planning agent Bernard Dobson said: “We feel part of this community and want to build upon this as our business grows.

“We wish to further invest in our people, continue this success story and share all the benefits of this by building upon the substantial foundations we have laid within the town to contribute further to its continued development and prosperity.”

Part of a £3.5million refurbishment of staff facilities would see a 200-seat restaurant created, alongside a gym, multi-faith room, lockers and relaxation spaces.

Mr Dobson has advised that the job creation figures submitted are dependent on sales meeting current projections - which would be dependent also on how effectively their automation and storage proposals are put into place.

Work could commence, pending planning approval, once the nearby former Dale Construction building was demolished.