PROTESTERS have forced councillors to defer a decision to introduce car parking charges in Rawtenstall.

Thousands of shoppers, commuters, residents and traders have been consulted over the past month about car parking charges.

Many people are opposed to the plans and traders believe it will lead to a reduction in trade.

Councillors at the Rossendale's first Executive meeting recommended members of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee should look at traffic management in the town centre.

The plan is to introduce a one-way system on Bank Street in consultation with commercial users of the street and the feasibility of establishing a park and ride scheme.

Council leader David Hancock said he has arranged a meeting with bus chiefs at Burnley and Pendle Transport to discuss bus services.

If paid-for parking is introduced following further consultation it could ultimately lead to drivers being charged up to £4 a day to park on Rossendale Borough Council's four main sites -- Newchurch Road, Phipps Buildings, off Bank Street and areas near to the town hall, including Kay Street.

Councillor Nick Pilling said: "Over the past months I have spent several hours in this room consulting with people about this issue. Some people had doubts that it wasn't a genuine consultation and that we had already made our minds up but I am pleased to say that this report clearly shows that we have listened to what people have said.

"In excess of 1,200 individual responses were received by the council in relation to this matter.

"I think the public and the organisations are to be commended who were involved for some of their constructive suggestions that have been put forward.

"It's important that we get it right."

Residents-only parking schemes in areas where locals have asked for one to be implemented are to be introduced in July.