THERE are pound shops right across East Lancashire. Clearly they are fulfilling a need, particularly in these difficult economic times.

But town centres need to have a good mix of shops if they are to appeal to a wide range of people.

That is why it is so disappointing that a large part of Mercer’s, which was Blackburn’s oldest store until its closure in January, is to be taken over by a pound shop.

Even though it is an existing trader moving from Church Street to the shop on Northgate, Blackburn has no shortage of discount retailers.

Mercer’s occupied an iconic building in a prime town centre location.

It is sad that the council was unable to secure the building for use by a trader. It also speaks volumes that the new tenant did not think they would be allowed to take over the property.

The announcement comes just a day after Preston City Council approved its £700million Tithebarn scheme which will see much of the city centre developed.

Blackburn Council has been an outspoken critic of the proposal, saying it will mean shoppers will be lost from the town centre.

The surest way to beat the competition is to provide an unbeatable range of stores.

Blackburn’s new Mall development has a big challenge to meet.