The controversial Tithebarn scheme, which is being developed by Lend Lease in partnership with Preston council, has been through a tortuous planning process.

Neighbouring councils Blackburn and Blackpool had vociferously fought the plan arguing it would threaten their trading future.

But last November Communites secretary Eric Pickles stepped in to give the Tithebarn development the go ahead – over ruling the planning inspector.

Blackburn with Darwen Council appealed his decision at the Administrative Court. But Justice Langstaff has upheld Pickles’ decision.

The council and Lend Lease can now work on the phasing of the plan, which will see large-scale demolition and re-building work, creating a John Lewis store, a new bus station and a revamped market.

Council leader Peter Rankin said that the focus was now to take Tithebarn forward in the difficult economic climate.

“There is still a lot of work ahead, including raising the necessary finance and assembling the land.

“But now we have the planning permission, we can move forward with renewed energy and positivity to meet the challenges ahead to deliver the Tithebarn development and the investment and new jobs it will bring.”

John Lewis and Marks and Spencer will be anchor tenants in two big new department stores. The plan also involves building around 100 smaller shops, a nine screen cinema, new bus station and 500 flats.

1 New John Lewis Department Store*
2 New Second Department store*
3 New Bus Station*
4 St John’s Church
5 Redeveloped Guild Arcade*
6 Guild Hall
7 Harris Museum
8 Flag Market
9 Town Hall
10 Refurbished 1875 and Fish Market*
11 New Cinema, Cafés and Restaurants*
12 New Retail Area
13 New Retail Area