The 200,000 sq ft Silk Street development will include a Debenhams store, shops, a cinema complex and multi-storey car park.

Cheshire East Council, which is advancing the scheme in joint venture with the developer, gave the planning green light for the £90m Exchange Street to Park Lane project.

It also incorporates improvements to highways and pedestrian routes as well as to the public realm outside the site’s boundary, including houses on Roe Street.

Waterman are the main consultants on the job, with URS handling M&E design work.

Construction work is expected to start early next year.

Councillor Michael Jones, Leader of Cheshire East Council, said: “The Silk Street scheme is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to radically revitalise and boost the economy of Macclesfield and unlock its potential.

“It is a key part of the Council’s and community partners’ plans to regenerate the town’s rich silk heritage, creating a cultural quarter. The Council is also developing its ambitious mixed-use scheme for the South Macclesfield Development Area.

“We know that leading retailers are looking to invest in towns with the right environment – and the Silk Street scheme offers that.

“With major, innovative regeneration projects under way across the Borough to boost the local economy and local communities, these are exciting times to be in Cheshire East.”

Will Robinson, retail director at Wilson Bowden developments, said: “We’re thrilled that a decision has been taken to support Silk Street as part of the wider vision to create a thriving, vibrant town centre in Macclesfield, offering something for everyone.

“We’re looking forward to starting work on the scheme and bringing the plans to life.”