CUSTOMERS driving to a garen centre will find access easier next year after plans for a new entrance road were passed by Blackburn with Darwen Council.

Main access to the Four Seasons Garden Centre, off Redearth Road, Darwen, was formerly Ashton Bridge, which closed in 1996.

Owner John Gorton applied for planning permission for a new two-way road, off Redearth Road earlier this year but it was turned down in July due to a loss of parking and unsatisfactory exit.

Mr Gorton amended the plans and resubmitted them as a one-way access lane into the centre and the council has now given them approval.

He said: "It will be much better for the business and more convenient for customers.

"Anyone coming from that end of town has to go right round on to the busy A666 at the moment to get in along Mill Gap Street.

"They will still have to come out that way but will have the choice of where to get in."

The road is expected to be complete by next spring.