SAINSBURY'S is claiming public support for its plans to redevelop Burnley's former Prestige factory site into a major shopping centre.

The company and partners Thornfield Developments say local consultation has shown 80 per cent of 136 people who took part welcomed the multi-million pound scheme, which will bring 600 new jobs to the town.

They say comment sheet returns showed people applauded plans to bring extra jobs and businesses to the town, including new Sainsbury and Homebase DIY stores.

Also receiving the thumbs up were plans to improve links to the railway station, the nearby Adelphi Hotel and the town centre.

Some concern was expressed in the consultations - particularly from elderly residents worried about whether there would be buses to the proposed new store. But the company said the scheme was designed to accommodate bus services and discussions were already under way with operators to provide a regular bus service to the 11-acre site.

A Sainsbury spokesman said the public feedback was an endorsement of the project.

He added: "The comments have given us valuable information as to how we can improve the development further to provide the best scheme for Burnley."

The Sainsbury scheme is one of two major plans for the factory, which closed down 14 months ago.

A rival developer is also bidding to create retail and office units on the site, providing 500 new jobs.

The Prestige scheme includes provision of a Business and technology centre, with a Cyber cafe, car parking and refurbishment of the Adelphi Hotel.

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