URL: https://democracy.blackburn.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=1282

Decision Maker:

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Purpose:

Content: RESOLVED   (1)  That the bids received from two developers, Monte Blackburn Ltd and Maple Grove Developments Ltd, both with significant retail development experience and with both bids assessed as compliant, be noted.   (2)  That as part of their submission, the two offers submitted from Monte Blackburn, a compliant offer and an alternative ‘land swap’, be noted.   (3) That it be noted the ‘land swap’ offer, for the exchange of Council land at Halingden Road (“Council Site”) with land in the owndeship of Monte Blackburn at Penny Street, being the former Thwaites building, now demolished (“Monte Site”) as illustrated on the plan attached at Annex B, attached to the report.    (4)  That the disposal of the Council Site to the Preferred Developer, Monte Blackburn Ltd, in exchange for the Monte Site subject to the terms as set out in the report, be approved.   (5)  That the provided benefits of the proposed ‘land swap’ to the Council, including the sites central location in close proximity to town centre amenities, the site’s provided future development opportunities, including its strong links to the former Thwaites site which was in full Council ownership, the site’s provided additional town centre parking in advance of any future development, be noted.   (6)  That, in the event that the Preferred Developer withdraws from the Agreement, the appointment of Maple Grove Developments as Reserve Bidder be approved.   (7)  That the Growth Programme Director be authorised in liaison with the Deputy Director of Legal and Governance to finalise and complete the terms of the contract.   (8)  That the Growth Programme Director be granted delegated authority, in consultation with the Executive Member for Growth and Development to:   a) Consider any objections to the proposed disposal of ‘open space’ at Haslingden Road; and if appropriate   b) Approve the proposed disposal of ‘open space’ at Haslingden Road.   (9)  That it be noted that Monte Blackburn would submit a planning application in 2026 with development expected to commence late 2026 with a planned opening in 2027.  

Date of Decision: February 12, 2026