THE replacement of a town centre Co-op store with a new one just 50 metres away can now go ahead.

Councillors have approved the new convenience shop with 16 car parking spaces on the site of the former Hollins Grove Liberal Club on Falcon Avenue in Darwen.

Blackburn with Darwen planning committee gave permission for the development despite a dispute between members over its opening hours.

Its chairman Cllr Dave Smith suggested 7am to 10pm but Independent Yusuf Jan-Virmani proposed 7am to 11pm.

The committee voted to back the shorter opening hours backed by Darwen West's Cllr Smith.

Following the approval for the new two-storey building the current Co-op on Blackburn Road is to be turned into new retail or business units.

The permission was granted despite six objections from neighbours on the grounds of access, traffic, parking and noise.

The committee was told that the new store would help Darwen District Centre 'remain vibrant'