THE developers responsible for the Middlebrook Development in Horwich are to shape the final phase of Salford's Lowry Centre scheme. Orbit Developments Ltd, part of the Emerson Group, have been given exclusive rights to draw up detailed proposals for the eight-acre site next to the Centre itself. City councillors agreed the move to give the developers the chance to establish the viability of their plans.

The deal will be struck between The Salford Bovis Partnership Ltd and Orbit Developments in connection with the Pier 8 site at Salford Quays, next to the Lowry Centre.

Detailed proposals, which will be available by the end of March next year, could include leisure, retail, hotel and restaurant uses with associated car parking.

Development will total about 300,000 sq ft and should be completed by the year 2000, the year that the Lowry Centre is due to open.

The city council leader, Cllr Bill Hinds, said: "This is a further crucial step in establishing the Lowry Centre and the associated developments as a major attraction not only for the city, but for the whole region."

Orbit's Managing Director, Mr Stan Annison, said: "Orbit are pleased to work once again in partnership with the public and private sector.

"Salford City Council, Bovis and the Lowry Trust have proven expertise which we hope we can add to in bringing forward this exciting flagship scheme."

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