AN increase in vandalism has forced Todmorden Town Council's development committee to relax its strict planning regulations.

Mahmudur Rahman successfully applied for external shutters to be put on his shop windows and door at Halifax Road.

Proposing the granting of retropective permission, Coun Steve Martin said: "It is regrettable that vandalism should be taken into account when deciding whether an area of the town should be protected to save its natural charm.

"It is getting worse and worse, and we have to face the fact that people are being forced into the position of having to protect their property. Places are opening for business, but they won't be for very long."