TODAY’S look back into the archives has revealed a picture which will stir up memories of the Lancashire Telegraph for anyone who lives or has visited Accrington.

The shape of Accrington's shopping future was revealed more than 35 years ago when planners unveiled a model and plans of the new eight million pound Cornhill shopping centre in February, 1980.

Cornhill, which is today known as the Arndale, would be built on Broadway car park by developers London and Manchester Securities Ltd, and Taylor Woodrow.

At the time the five-storey centre, built of traditional brick and slate, would have a superstore, stores for Littlewoods, W H Smith and Boots, together with 16 shops, a pub function room and offices.

Free parking for about 750 cars would be provided in a basement for a basement car park and on the two top floors, which would be covered by a roof to blend in with Accrington's landscape, according to the plans.

Existing Broadway and Union Street shops would be joined to the new centre by two glass-covered shopping arcades forming an L-shape and four lifts, steps and ramps will provide easy access to all levels.

Work was expected to start towards the end of 1980 and finish by Christmas 1982. The shopping centre was officially opened by Ken Dodd in October 1987.