STRUGGLING market traders will see their rent slashed an response to dwindling customer numbers.

Stallholders at Nelson and Colne's market halls will pay as little as half their previous tariffs, after Pendle Council's restructure of the system.

Traders had been paying up to £45.73 per square foot in their monthly rents - now the basic rate will be just £20.26, with slight increases for stalls with extra sales frontages and prime positions.

In a report to Pendle Council's Executive Committee, property services officer Keith Davy said the present rental costs were putting people off opening a stall, and that the new system would hopefully increase occupancy and attract more shoppers.

He said: "There is clear evidence of a general decline in retail trade, particularly over the last six months, and average rental levels at present are in excess of those charged by neighbouring councils.

"For Nelson and Colne markets to continue to provide a service to the local community, support from the council is required to assist traders through the current difficult period.

"Failure to act could have a detrimental effect on the sustainability of the markets and a negative impact on the local community and small retail businesses in the borough."

He added that the market loyalty scheme would also be re-introduced to attract customers back to the markets, while all traders would be given access to internet technology.

The executive committee is expected to approve the plans at its meeting at Nelson Town Hall on Monday night.