A MULTI-MILLION pound cinema complex opposite Warrington Central Station will "send a message that Warrington is a major destination capable of attracting real investment".

That is the verdict of council leader Ian Marks after plans for the derelict land on Winwick Street, which include more than 600 apartments, shops, offices and a health centre, were chosen over a rival bid for Time Square.

Clr Marks (LD) said: "This is an exciting development in a location that is very accessible by public transport and which adds to the increasing attraction of Warrington town centre.

"Importantly, the scheme brings massive benefits in terms of job opportunities in one of the most deprived wards, a replacement for the existing day-care centre on the site and the upgrade of a key gateway into the heart of the town."

Government inspector Nicholas Freeman recommended that planning permission be given for both The Winwick Partnership's scheme and Big Apple's vision for another cinema, restaurants, cafes and bars and revamped links and entrances to Warrington Market, following a public inquiry in March.

But Ruth Kelly, the former Secretary of State for the Department for Communities and Local Government, ruled against the Time Square development.

She said it was not an identified regeneration area and criticised Big Apple's proposed contribution to off-site affordable housing, saying it was unacceptable' given the shortfall of affordable housing in the town.

Warrington Borough Council had approved both of the schemes, but advisors admitted that in practice only one would probably be built. Big Apple will now be invited to discuss possible ways forward with the council.

Colin Daniels, chief executive of Warrington Chamber of Commerce, had urged the Government not to consider the blueprints as rival developments but as two schemes that could each benefit the town.

He said: "So much for the process. We as a chamber are disappointed.

"We believe there was scope for both developments in the town, both of which would have seriously advanced the current development of the town centre following the opening of Golden Square."