UNHAPPY traders could throw a spanner in the works of Burnley’s new £40million shopping centre.

They are angry that changes to the road layout where the Oval development is due to be built, near Curzon Street, could spell problems for the town’s other main shopping centre.

A new plan for highways, submitted to council bosses by Manchester-based Henry Boot Developments, proposes making part of Bankfield one-way.

Chris Gribben, general manager of the Charter Walk shopping centre, said the move would force some delivery lorries into a detour along Standish Street, Parker Street and down Curzon Street.

He said: “It will affect some of our deliveries, like Argos, Home Bargains and Currys.

“It is certainly of concern to me and those traders.

“I think the best solution would be for Bankfield to remain two-way.

"That would be safer for deliveries and pedestrians.”

Mr Gribben is backed up by Burnley Chamber of Trade.

President Brian Hobbs said: “We are concerned about the effect of heavy goods vehicles travelling on narrow streets and the effect it could have on Charter Walk.”

However, the pair remain supportive of the Oval scheme overall.

Council planners are currently putting the finishing touches to the report to councillors on the Oval.

It is highly likely they will recommend development control committee members approve the scheme on April 28.

If rubber-stamped, the new shopping centre would include an ‘anchor’ unit housing Primark, on the corner of Royle Road and Active Way.

Next would move into the main store on the Curzon Street side of the development.

The Oval was first proposed in 2004.