WORK on a project to bring the first Nando’s restaurant to East Lancashire has reached a crucial phase.

Contractors working on behalf of the South African firm have been working on the refit of the former Bowlplex site, at the Peel Retail & Leisure Park in Mayson Street, Blackburn.

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And now cranes have moved in to remodel the main entrance to the complex, underneath the town’s Vue Cinema.

A portion of the car park outside the DW Leisure gym next door has also been cordoned off so engineers can work on the utilities.

Before now, last Christmas had been cited as a possible opening date for their outlet, and then this summer. No firm date has yet been set for the launch.

The Nando’s restaurant was set to be one of two within the expanded leisure hub, to complement the 11-screen cinema above.

Cllr Phil Riley, Blackburn with Darwen Council’s regeneration cabinet member, said: “We have been keen for Nando’s to move ahead with this because they are very popular, especially with younger people. I am very pleased that they have started work and am looking forward to their opening.”

Further work has also focused on securing the fire exits at ground-floor level, while the internal refit continues.

A Nando’s spokesman said: “The work is part of a major refurbishment which includes preparing for a new Nando’s restaurant in Blackburn. Further announcements about the project can be expected in due course.”

The Nando’s chain already has more than 1,000 outlets in 30 countries worldwide and has found fame for its peri peri marinade and spicy Portuguese- and Mozambican-based menu.

Bosses are yet to confirm whether the restaurant will be halal, thought to be a key consideration given the high proportion of young people of Asian heritage living in the surrounding area.

Council bosses have plans to open at least five new restaurants in the town centre as part of regeneration proposals.