PLANS have been given the green light to attract more motorists to Radcliffe.

In a bid to halt the decline of shopping facilities in the town centre, and encourage car-owning customers into the area, Bury Council is to build a new car park on land off Blackburn Street.

The scheme, involving spaces for 22 vehicles, was approved last week by planning chiefs.

The site of the car park was previously occupied by three properties which have since been demolished.

Mr Brian Daniel, borough planning officer, said: "The site is within an area of Radcliffe town centre where retailing had declined to the extent that few outlets are still trading.

"The redevelopment of this site to create a car park would provide both visual improvement and help attract car-borne customers into the area, thereby contributing towards its revival."