A new multi-million pound leisure and retail park in Swadlincote has been given the go ahead by South Derbyshire District Council.

Proposals for the £20m development, on the site of a former pipeworks, were granted planning permission by the council last week.

The new 3.6-hectare (8.9-acre) Hepworth Retail and Leisure Park will include a 3,297 sq m (32.29 sq ft) leisure element featuring a new five-screen Curzon multiplex cinema. Food and drink outlets are also among the plans in addition to the retail element.

Frank McArdle, chief executive of South Derbyshire District Council, said: "The developers have worked hard with the council to avoid a 'clone town' scheme. It will be a major regeneration catalyst. It is the shot in the arm that the town has needed to transform it into a retail and leisure destination."

Rokeby Developments, in partnership with Peveril Securities, is behind the scheme. Rokeby's director, Adrian Goodall, said: "The scheme will be a major boost for Swadlincote and swell the town's attractions."