Blackburn retailer submits 90,000 sq ft HQ scheme

Forecourt retail operator Euro Garages has submitted plans to build an 89,700 sq ft three-storey office block and two drive-through restaurants in Haslingden Road, Blackburn.

The site, close to Fishmoor Reservoir and adjacent to a DW Sports centre, is a short distance from the company’s existing head office, which will be retained. Other key sites in the area include Shadsowrh Business Park and Blackburn Royal Hospital. The proposed site is currently vacant.

Euro Garages, which operates roadside restaurants and shops for brands including Starbucks, Subway and Greggs, said the proposals would allow it to create 300 new jobs.

Blackburn architect Campbell Driver Partnership and PWA Planning are working with Euro Garages on the project.

Cllr Phil Riley, head of regeneration at Blackburn with Darwen Council, said: “The office is for Euro Garages’ European headquarters. We are absolutely delighted they have chosen to build in the borough.

“They are a huge business, not just in the town but across the country. It is encouraging they want to put their headquarters in Blackburn. They are advancing across Europe and it is a good story for everyone here.”

Khalid Saifullah, chairman of business organization Blackburn & Darwen Hive Ambassadors Network, said: “It is absolutely incredible news – I want to see the business grow from strength to strength and continue to see its influence. Euro Garages is one of the country’s biggest success stories.

“They had the chance to set up their international base in Manchester or London but it shows they have faith in East Lancashire, which gives the town a huge boost of confidence.”