A DARWEN trader believes he has come up with a solution to the town centre's traffic problems.

The plan by Dave Grogan, owner of Solitaire Fashions, Duckworth Street, has been backed by the Darwen Chamber of Trade and some councillors.

But the leader of the council said that they may not have enough cash to carry out the work.

It comes after the Lancashire Telegraph yesterday launched the We're Backing Darwen campaign to revitalise the town.

One of our key aims is for improve-ments to be made to the controversial new road system.

Mr Grogan said Duckworth Street and Market Street should be restored to two lanes for traffic heading towards Bolton.

Traffic from Bolton would go along a one-way system through Green Street and Bury Street.

The proposals would also include widening Varley Street for two-way traffic making it easier to access Duckworth Street to Bury Street and vice-versa.

In addition traffic would be allowed to use part of the bus lane from Market Street to Green Street where it would have direct access to the health centre.

Mr Grogan said: "It is important to have ease of access to the town centre combined with through traffic being delayed as little as possible.

"I feel certain this will result in a much better flow.

"Equally important, there will still be ample on-street parking.

"This will hopefully be advantageous to the traders along Bridge Street but moreover, it will be essential to take extra traffic when the academy is built.

"The traffic lights adjacent to the leisure centre would not be required and could be replaced by a pelican or zebra crossing.

"There will be minimal disruption as most of the present layout could be incorporated.

"I realise there will be a certain cost implication but I hope the council doesn't take a short-term view because of this.

"The benefits, long term for market traders, shop-keepers and all of Darwen, will be more important than costs."

Mr Grogan will approach Blackburn with Darwen Council with his plans over the coming months.

Sunnyhurst ward councillor Coun Dave Hollings said: "There is a definite possibility of opening up Varley Street for two-way traffic, especially now the petrol station has gone.

"I'd welcome anything that stimulates trade in the town, and this system should certainly be looked at."

Coun Colin Rigby, leader of the coalition at Blackburn with Darwen Council said he did not know whether the system would work, and added: "In practical terms, with the cash in the budget the way it is, making alterations like those proposed would be unlikely."