A PLANNING 'blueprint' has been drawn up, earmarking nine key sites across Pendle for future developments that could create more than 1,000 new jobs.

An independent study commissioned by Pendle Council has highlighted parcels of spare land which could be used to boost local employment and services. It also recommends action to revitalise Nelson and Colne town centres.

If all the proposed developments go ahead, Pendle stands to benefit from more than 1,000 new jobs generated by business, industrial and leisure projects.

Council leader Alan Davies said: "The council's extension of Lomeshaye Industrial Estate has been a great success, with sites selling out fast. Businesses want to expand and grow in Pendle, but we need new sites to meet the demand over the next five years.

"By considering the options for space for business and industry we are helping to create jobs for local people. In addition, we want to strengthen our town centres and take immediate action to tackle the recent downturn in Nelson." Dennis Mendoros, chairman of the Pendle Partnership consortium, which worked with the council on drawing up the report, added: "The extension of the M65 is making an impact on Pendle and is opening up opportunities to put vacant and derelict sites to good use, which will add to Pendle's attractions as a place to live and work."

The sites and their preferred uses highlighted in the study were:

Hollin Bank, Brierfield; Fast food restaurant, car showroom or business units.

Stanworth Street/Rigby Street, Nelson; Supermarket plus leisure use, shops or low-cost housing.

Riverside, Barrowford; Business park.

Seed Hill Mill, Clayton Street, Nelson; Supermarket.

Greenfield, Colne; Hotel, pub, petrol station and fast food restaurant.

Vivary Way, Colne; Business park.

North Valley Road, Colne; Business park and retail centre.

Earby Business Park; Industrial units.

Crownest, Barnoldswick; Industrial units.

The study also carried out a 'health check' on Nelson and Colne town centres and put forward options for drawing in shoppers, including traffic-calming and improvements to bus services.

All the proposals will be considered by councillors and their recommendations will be put to the council's policy committee next month.

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