A TOWN centre shopping development which had to be put on hold due to the recession is now back on track.

However, plans for a multiplex cinema and footbridge at The Oval, in Darlington, have had to be dropped.

The developer, Discovery Properties, hopes to submit a revised planning application with the intention to open the complex by December 2013.

The shopping centre will include an 80,000sq ft flagship store, 20 shops and 500-space car park.

It is not yet known whether Debenhams, which was originally lined up as the flagship store, still intends to open in the development.

Unlike the previous proposal, the new scheme will not include Kendrew Street, which was due to be the location of a multi-storey car park and will now be reconfigured as a park.

The development is seen as one of the most important retail schemes in the town since the Cornmill Centre opened in 1992.

Hugo Hawkings, chief executive of Discovery Properties, said: “We’ve gone back to basics and got a scheme to deliver the council’s original objectives to improve the shopping in the town.

“In doing so, we’ve taken out the multiplex cinema, as it was too expensive and unfortunately that was a casualty.”

He added: “This is an exciting project which will greatly enhance the retail offer within the town and we look forward to working closely with the council to make this a reality.”

The footbridge over St Augustine’s Way, which would have linked the multi-storey car park with the main shopping complex, will not go ahead either.

Instead, the existing subway will be enhanced and traffic lights installed. The scheme will still link with the existing Queen Street shopping centre, which would be refurbished.

Councillor John Williams, the leader of Darlington Borough Council, said: “The council has invested heavily in the town centre and we are committed to ensuring that Darlington continues to thrive in what are difficult economic conditions.

“We welcome the submission of the revised plans for The Oval and to the progress in agreements, which may lead to a substantial development in this area of the town.

“This planned investment is a sign of confidence in Darlington’s economy and will be a great boost to the town centre.”

Earlier this month, the Cornmill announced it had bought the Post Office building in Crown Street as part of plans to expand. The Post Office will lease the site back.