A FREE car park promised to traders in Darwen for Christmas may not be open until after the festive season is over.

Blackburn with Darwen Council announced in August that the former Texaco garage in Darwen town centre would become a temporary car park in the run up to December 25.

The council said that the car park in Varley Street would be opened after the Christmas lights switch on, which was November 24, but in time for Christmas to encourage shoppers into the town.

But it is still waiting for an environmental impact assessment report following the removal of the former garage's petrol tanks from the site.

Once the site is given a clean bill of health works can begin to complete the car park.

The report is expected within the next week.

Long-term plans for the site, just north of the town centre, have not yet been decided but the area will remain as a car park until a decision has been made about the future of the site.

Dave Grogan, owner of Solitaire Ladieswear, said: "I'm not sure if this car park was an empty promise.

"Anything the council does now, whether before or after Christmas it can only be a benefit for the town, I think that is the position Darwen is in.

"The car park would be an advantage as it is right in the town centre."

Coun Dave Smith who represents the Sunnyhurst ward, said: "First we were told it would be ready for July, then we were told Christmas, so it's really frustrating.

"It's not good at all. It would have been ideal for traders and shoppers for Christmas shopping."

Coun Alan Cottam, executive member for regeneration, said: "It was always the council's intention to open the car park in time for Christmas.

"However, we always made it clear that this would be based on the results of the environmental impact assessment report following the removal of the petrol tanks.

"This is something that takes time and it had to be done through the proper channels so that there was no contamination of the sub soil.

"The council is in the process of obtaining this report and as soon as we are given the all clear, we will proceed with the car park.

"It will be a temporary supplementary car park until we decide what we are doing with the site.

"It is an important gateway to the town. We have provided additional car parking in the area."