BLACKBURN with Darwen Council's transport department was praised after an inspection but told more work was needed in encouraging people to abandon their cars.

The Audit Commission gave the borough a fair rating in a best value report into its sustainable transport service.

It said the council had improved road safety, made Blackburn town centre better for pedestrians and cyclists and was beginning to address the transport needs of specific areas. Bus users were only moderately satisfied, but the transport service was described as "promising" because many improvements were yet to be completed.

Several recommendations were also made:

highlight traffic problems and show people why alternative transport solutions are necessary

complete the green travel plan and Orbital Route

adopt the car parking strategy and seek continued investment in improving public transport's access, punctuality and reliability

better facilities for people with special needs

Helen Platts, commissioning inspector for the northern region, said: "Councillors and staff have a clear understanding of what sustainability means and new staff appointments will ensure progress is made with planned improvements.

"Blackburn with Darwen Council has identified a set of challenging but achievable targets for improving those aspects of public transport that are important for local people."

"The council now needs to develop explicit measurable targets to enable it to monitor its progress in developing a more sustainable transport system."

Coun Andy Kay, executive member for regeneration which covers transport, said: "We are pleased the inspectors recognised the progress we are making in this area and acknowledged that we have promising prospects for improvement."