TRADERS have sent an 11th-hour plea to councillors to try to stop Traffic changes in a Darwen shopping street.

Most shopkeepers in Bridge Street have signed a letter asking for talks before a decision is made.

The street is currently one-way towards Hardman Way and is supposed to be used for delivery-only at certain times of the day.

However, plans to alter the right of way would allow cars to drive into Bridge Street at The Circus as far as Church Bank Street and also allow access from Hardman Way, also as far as Church Bank Street.

Vehicles would then be sent up Church Bank Street in a bid to stop motorists using the street as a rat-run to Redearth Road.

The plans would also include installing a disabled parking bay at the top of Bridge Street opposite The Bridge cafe.

But shopkeepers who attended an emergency meeting believe the proposals could cause several problems.

One said: "Traffic turning right off Bridge Street will struggle because it is only a narrow opening and lorries have difficulty turning the corner.

"There are also regular vehicles delivering to Somerfield which block the road up Church Bank Street so it will lead to a tailback of traffic on to Bridge Street.

"We also want to know where the traffic will go once it's gone up Church Bank Street because the first exit is Victoria Street which is one-way in the opposite direction, and Bank Street is two way with cars parked down either side. If the cars go to the top and turn left they'll end up coming out on Railway Road."

Coun Dave Hollings, said: "The proposals to change traffic flow on Bridge Street is a result of campaigning by some local traders because it is meant to be used for deliveries only and they were concerned people could park on the street and affect trade.