TWO large shops will form the centrepiece of a multi-million pound revamp of Farnworth precinct.

Councillors are ready to discuss proposals for the shops on both sides of the precinct's entrance in Brackley Street.

Developer The Halladale Group, based in Glasgow, have won the first phase of planning permission for a £5 million to £10 million overhaul of the precinct.

The plans include the demolition of the existing retail kiosks which will be replaced by five new kiosks.

It is hoped the deal will revitalise Farnworth's declining shopping economy and lure high street names into the area.

Cllr Noel Spencer welcomed the proposals, but said: "I have concerns about the commercial viability of the scheme, especially with the empty stalls in the market.

"I hope these plans will address some of these problems. I'd like to see the traders fully involved in the process."

Halladale bought the precinct's 23 stalls and its 12 adjoining shops last September in a deal worth £4.2 million.

Councillors were shown outline proposals last year but exact details of the application were kept secret.

The application was passed by Bolton Council on delegated powers but further approval is still required.

It is thought that some proposals that were shelved from the 1997 precinct redevelopment could resurface this time round.

Council planning officer Martin Mansell said: "This application will make a contribution to improving the environment of Farnworth town centre and therefore its vitality and viability should be supported."

It is the second time developers have bought leases to the precinct which covers 45,000 square feet.

It was built in the 1960s and acquired by Bruntwood Estates in 1988, who sold it to Oceana Ltd nearly three years ago.

The Halladale Group was unavailable for comment.