The applicant, Pendle Citypark Ltd, a joint venture with Barnfield Construction, has been given initial consent to build a 4,500 sq. metre facility on land currently occupied by Empress Mills and the old market hall in the heart of the town centre.

However, the application has puzzled health chiefs who say the plans have nothing to with East Lancashire Primary Care Trust which is currently considering various options for its £10m. community health centre project in Colne.

Citypark's scheme proposes the erection of the centre on a site bounded by Norfolk Street, Dockray Street, King Street and Buck Street.

It is thought the PCT will make its decision on its preferred location in the coming weeks.

The plans passed at last night's Colne and District meeting were accepted only on a locality basis. Further discussions will need to take place with regards to design, siting, scale and access subject to appropriate conditions.