PENDLE'S canal could see major changes after plans for a £400,000 redevelopment scheme was backed by local residents.

More than 500 people took part in a consultation exercise designed to let local people have their say on how the canal corridor in Brierfield and Nelson should be developed.

Bosses at the Pendle Partnership say the positive response brings the scheme a step closer to reality.

With £400,000 already being pledged to improve the canal's environment and begin its regeneration, the partnership insisted that local people must be involved in deciding how it is to be developed.

The consultation was carried out by Groundwork East Lancashire, to find out what people in Brierfield and Nelson wanted from the canal. The results of the consultation were discussed at two meetings of Pendle Partnership and by Pendle Borough Council last week.

Most people were in favour of the canal being used for leisure activities and educational purposes with use of traditional 'heritage' materials and styles.

There were ideas for islands for nesting birds, herb and cottage gardens with grass and trees, picnic tables, barge trips, fishing, restaurants and bars and cycling.

Rowing boats, shopping, jogging and tree planting also scored highly with local people, although using the canal for education purposes was the only idea that nobody objected to.

Involving children in sustainability issues was particularly popular. Many people thought that providing opportunities for young people to look after trees and the landscape was important.

Brian Holmes, Chair of the Pendle Partnership Environment Key Priority Group

said: "Pendle Partnership are delighted with the response to this consultation.

"There is clearly strong local support for canal development in Nelson and Brierfield.

"The canal will help to regenerate the area by providing opportunities to exercise, relax, eat and drink, shop, do business. Improving the canal's environment will be good for businesses and tourism."