Nando’s is coming to Blackburn as part of a redevelopment of the Vue cinema complex.

The news that the international restaurant company has chosen the town as its first outlet in East Lancashire has been welcomed as a major boost to regeneration plans.

The proposals for upgrading the Vue, on the Peel Retail and Leisure Park behind the Railway Station includes two new restaurants.

Last night Nando’s, which specialises in chicken dishes, confirmed they were opening a branch inside the revamped complex which includes 11 screens and a ‘Bowlplex’ alley.

It is expected to open in December in time for Christmas.

The restaurant is particularly popular with young people for its spicy Portuguese/Mozambican-based menu.

Nando’s, a South African company has more than 1,000 outlets in 30 countries world-wide and is famous for its signature hot ‘Peri-Peri’ marinade.

No decision has yet been taken on whether the restaurant should be ‘halal’ but it is expected when the company examines the population make-up of the town it will meet Muslim dietary rules in common with its other outlets in areas with high South Asian populations across the UK.

Vue owners M and G Real estates have submitted a planning application for extensions to the front of the building providing nearly 200 square yards of floorspace.

The extension and reconfiguring of the existing interior layout will provide two new restaurants.

Nando’s will occupy one while the second occupant is at yet unknown.

The plan includes alterations to the front of the building; including a new entrance, and changes to the car park layout.

A spokeswoman for Nando’s said: “We’re thrilled to be spreading more Peri Peri love in Lancashire with the opening our first Nando’s in Blackburn next winter.

“The restaurant is due to open in December, just before Christmas.”