WORK will begin next month on a multi-million pound shopping and leisure development on the edge of St Helens town centre, it has been confirmed.

Plans for West Point, the site of the former St Thomas’ Square flats, should finally be realised after a decade of false dawns.

The development will involve an Aldi store, bowling alley, café and restaurants. It is believed talks are also ongoing with a 24 hour gym operator.

In what will be regarded as an economic lift for the town, the complex – which has secured planning permission - is expected to provide up to 280 full time jobs.

There will be 230 car parking spaces and a new puffin crossing will be created close to the St Helens Linkway West roundabout.

The Star reported last year how Orbit Developments, part of The Emerson Group, had resurrected the plans.

The company has entered into a development agreement with St Helens Council to redevelop the site, which has become an eyesore over the past 10 years.

The council – which has been criticised by some people for allowing the town to fall behind neighbouring areas’ - believes it “will significantly enhance the retail and leisure offer in St Helens”.

Council leader Barrie Grunewald said: “The scheme represents a positive step forward after many false dawns on this site.

“This development will now become a reality with quality investment in the town centre on a site that has been left derelict for a very significant period of time.

“The proposed bowling alley, cafe and restaurants supplement existing uses in the locality and in particular complement the cinema on the opposite side of Linkway West.”

"Orbit Developments, in conjunction with the Council have worked hard to bring this development to life and I am delighted that work will commence on the site in February."

Paul Hubball, senior development manager for Orbit Developments, said: “It has been a pleasure working with such a proactive and forward thinking council where private sector investment is welcomed as a key driver for redevelopment.

“This scheme has stalled on a number of occasions but with a patient and realistic approach we have now made a significant step forward in making the delivery of the project a reality."

Orbit has entered into an agreement for lease with Aldi for the food store and are in discussions with a bowling operator and a number of restaurant chains, which do not have an existing presence in St Helens