Genr8 Developments has submitted a detailed planning application of its proposed £60million retail and leisure development in Rochdale Town Centre.

The scheme, branded as Rochdale Riverside, covers 200,000 sq ft (18,580 sq m) and comprises 24 retail and leisure units, together with a six-screen cinema and 350 car parking spaces.

The proposals, which have been designed by TP Bennett Architects, include a 50,000 sq ft (4,645 sq m) M&S and a 22,000 sq ft (2,044 sq m) Next. Reel Cinemas will operate the cinema.

The scheme is being delivered by Genr8 Developments and Kajima in partnership with Rochdale Borough Council.

The application is expected to be considered early in the new year. Demolition works have already started and construction works are expected to start by late summer 2017.

Councillor Richard Farnell, leader of Rochdale Borough Council, said: “This is a hugely important milestone for the regeneration of our town centre. The new stores and high street names will attract new shoppers back to town and give a massive boost to all retailers. It's a unique mix of retail and leisure which will create 1,000 new jobs and boost the local economy by £17m.”

Rochdale Riverside is part of a £250m regeneration programme to transform the town.