TWO major proposals to expand and develop Sale's town centre shopping precinct have been given the green light.

Six Acre Investments have won approval to build a part single-storey part two storey L-shaped building on land fronting Springfield Road to provide two new retail stores with a leisure facility on the first floor.

They have also been given permission to build a single-storey shopping hall with a cafe on land adjoining Hereford Street and Benbow Street.

Cllr Philip Gratrix told Trafford's development services committee: "This is great news and it shows the confidence developers have in Sale town centre.

"The story is that the Trafford Centre has not hit Sale - and that Sale is brightening itself up. I am very pleased."

Chairman Cllr Bill Clarke added: "These are very positive developments for Sale."

The Springfield Road scheme will also involve additional parking provision, although overall there will be a loss of parking space.

Planning director Angus McIntyre said: "Together, these developments strengthen the retail base of the town centre.

"Clearly new investment is an important factor in maintaining the vitality and viability of the town centre."

Sale Town Centre Partnership has cautioned against increased traffic and parking problems leading to a rise in an already serious accident toll in the area.

But Mr McIntyre said: "The positive benefits arising from the proposed retail developments in improving the overall attractiveness and competitiveness of the town centre outweigh issues relating to car parking."

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