THE owners of Rawtenstall’s ‘ghost’ retail park are bidding to open up their premises to all-comers – and end a seven-year wait for tenants.

Bosses at West Register are anxious to broaden the appeal of the New Hall Hey Retail Park, which has been on the market since 2007 without any occupiers.

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But now amid speculation that an unnamed ‘anchor’ tenant has been identified, the property company is applying to Rossendale Council to remove a series of conditions restricting the range of goods permitted to be sold there.

Planning agent Annabel Partridge said: “An anchor retailer is critical to the delivery of New Hall Hey Retail Park, as it will drive interest from other retailers for the remaining space.

“There is confirmed interest from an anchor retailer at this time, which may not be around in a year because of the dynamic nature of the retail market.

“Therefore it is important that the retailer is secured now through approval of this application.”

Another three retailers are said to be interested in the edge-of-town site - but only if the main tenant is given the green light.

Miss Partridge added: “These retailers will not formally agree to occupy space until the anchor retailer is committed.

“And this cannot be achieved without the approval of this application.”

“The site has remained vacant for a number of years and is an eyesore.”

Plans have also been lodged for extra plant equipment and trolley bays, in the hope of the main application being given consent.