THE demolition of the Daniel Thwaites brewery will see one of Blackburn’s landmark buildings disappear from the skyline.

Yesterday it announced plans to move out of the town centre after more than 200 years.

Supermarket giant Sainsbury’s aims to buy the 7.2-acre Penny Street site if it can win planning permission.

But it could also also spark a larger regeneration of Blackburn town centre.

Following the recent completion of Blackburn Market and a £66million expansion of The Mall, more development is now to take place at the former market building.

Blackburn with Darwen Council has confirmed that discussions are taking place with retailers interested in the old market.

Jack Straw, Blackburn MP, said the town could soon establish itself as a major regional shopping centre.

He said: “It is sad that this iconic landmark is set to go and Thwaites will no longer be associated with the town centre but this is a fantastic opportunity for the area.

“There is a lot of potential in the Thwaites and former market sites.

“This could make a big difference to the town.”

Council leader Kate Hollern said: “This will give the council and Thwaites an opportunity not only to explore relocation opportunities to a different part of the borough but also provide us with major redevelopment opportunities for that part of the town."

Blackburn with Darwen Council chief executive Graham Burgess said: “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the town centre.

“This can be the start of a new era for the town because it gives us real opportunities.

“I cannot predetermine any planning decisions but this development would give us the opportunity to look at the road layout in that area and improve the landscape of that part of the town centre.

“Sainsbury’s will need to show that there is a demand for a new supermarket and show how the project would benefit the town.”

Coun Mike Lee, leader of the opposition, said: “The development of a supermarket in the town centre could help revitalise the area and we would get the best of both worlds – Thwaites would stay in Blackburn and the area would be redeveloped.”

Jo Try, regional development surveyor at Sainsbury's, said: “The proposals are at very early stages and before we submit a planning application, we'd be keen to hear the views of the local community and will be holding a full public consultation into any proposals.”