WORK to transform a derelict Christchurch retail park into a new shopping complex could start within weeks and be completed in nine months.

Proposals by Brookhouse Group to demolish four units at the Meteor Retail Park, off Somerford Road, and replace them with a new building containing six new shops were given the go-ahead by the council at its planning control committee meeting on Thursday.

And planning agent Matthew Sobic, of Savills, said retailers planned to start trading in nine months, with 150 jobs set to be created.

"This will result in an increase in earnings of over £2.5million every year, enhancing the retail offer and reducing spending leaking from Christchurch," he said.

"Over 90 per cent of local residents travel outside of Christchurch for clothing and footwear goods."

He claimed that more than £60million of trade is lost from the town every year as residents go elsewhere to shop - something he predicts the new outlet will curtail.

Before voting in support of the application, the committee's deputy chairman Lisle Smith said: "Although I still maintain my concerns regarding the potential effects on the vibrancy and vitality of our high street, I do feel there are no material planning reasons to refuse this application."

Former mayor and ward councillor for Grange, Cllr Denise Jones, backed the project and said greater competition in the area will drive down prices.

"It will enhance an area of Christchurch which has been trying to improve, but there is this big blot on the landscape - the Meteor site - and it's been derelict for too many years," she said.

Cllr Trevor Watts also spoke in favour of the scheme, but not before venting his frustration that it had taken so long to come about.

He said: "I will support it, but can we not be here in a year's time discussing it again? The gentleman [from Savills] did say that in nine months the place will be completed. The clock is ticking. I will hold you to your word. The place does need renovating - Cllr Jones is right - it is a blot on the landscape. Do no come back to this committee in a year's time with another application after changing your mind."

Brands such as Aldi, TK Maxx and Matalan have been linked with the scheme.