MULTI-million pound plans to transform Farnworth town centre — which developers believe could create 100 jobs — have been submitted to Bolton Council.

Developers St. Modwen want to build a shopping parade at the Market Precinct between Brackley Street and King Street.

The plans, if approved, would include 23,000 sq ft of retail space and include a first-floor gym.

There would also be improvements including new pavements, benches, bins and trees.

There are also plans to “reconfigure” Farnworth Market as part of a wider town centre plan — in a bid to create a “modern and revamped facility for traders and shoppers.”

St. Modwen bought the precinct in 2011 for £5 million and said investment in the project could be up to £10 million.

The application has been put forward in conjunction with Bolton Council for an area of Farnworth which was identified as underdeveloped and in need of investment.

St. Modwen’s North West director, Steven Knowles, said: “This much-needed scheme will transform Farnworth town centre, bringing significant investment and job opportunities to the local area, as well as an improved leisure and retail offer.

“This latest step demonstrates the improving economy which in turn, is having a positive impact on the commercial property market in the North.”

Bolton Council leader Cllr Cliff Morris said he believes the plans could “transform” the area.

He added: “We’ve been working with St. Modwen since they acquired the precinct and this development has the potential to transform an area that is in real need of new investment. “The expanded and improved retail offer in this proposed development could act as a catalyst for the wider regeneration of the town centre — the application will now be considered as part of the planning process.”

Farnworth Cllr Noel Spencer said he has seen projects completed by St.Modwen elsewhere and is confident about what they are proposing.

He added: “They have a really good reputation and we are confident that this will happen — after previous plans didn’t go ahead.

“This project will regenerate a significant area of Farnworth and hopefully provide much needed jobs to the area.”

The proposals have not been as walmly welcomed by traders at Farnworth Market who are unaware of what will happen to them if the plans are rubber stamped.

Steve Rawcliffe, who has run a fruit and veg stall at the site for 45 years, said: “I have been to all the meetings but I haven’t had a straight answer about what will happen to us.

“One way or another I would just like to know what is happening.”