RADICAL plans which could transform East Lancashire's transport systems and regenerate the area are right on track.

County Councillor Tim Ormerod, who represents Lancashire County Council on the East Lancashire's Partnership's Rapid Transit Board, said the plans would put rail at the core of the system with high quality bus services linking together to enable seamless travel around the area.

New state-of-the-art trains will be introduced to provide high frequency journeys with bus services from strategically based transport hubs at Blackburn, Accrington, Burnley and Rawtenstall to create an integrated network.

Coun Ormerod, who is also the cabinet member for public protection and rural affairs with the county council, said he was keen to ensure that the vision of a first class integrated public transport system for the area becomes a reality.

And he said the Partnership also sees the system as a catalyst for regeneration with the possibility of new developments being liked closely to the transport infrastructure.

He said: "All the information shows that the integrated Rapid Transit System would bring great benefits to East Lancashire. We now know that the cost benefit ratios and investments needed are very favourable and potentially offer much better value than similar systems elsewhere in the country.

"I believe people want to travel quickly and safely with the minimum of fuss. Plans for through ticketing and co-ordinated timetables coupled with great investment in the infrastructure will achieve this."