A TOWN'S much-maligned square is set to go all continental in a bid to discourage local vandals from congregating there.

A new plan for Oswaldtwistle town square, off Union Road, was unveiled at a meeting of the town's Area Council last night.

Since its creation in 1994 -- complete with marble arch and concrete table dotted with cups saucers and a teapot -- the square has become a regular haunt for troublesome youngsters.

Among the changes to the square will be the removal of the arch, which will be replaced with two cast iron benches and hanging basket stands, with all the teapot figures also being scrapped.

Planters will be dotted around the large, paved square with arrangement being made for the town's Christmas tree to be sited in the middle, along with the are's Christmas crib, which is currently situated near to Rhyddings Street.

A spokesman for Hyndburn Council, which put forward the report to last night's meeting, added: "Around the perimeter will be a number of lime trees which will be large enough to withstand vandalism.

"The trees, when planted, will blend together to give a sort of 'hedge on a stick' look which will provide shelter from the wind in the winter, and shade in the summer.

"This is a unique feature not normally seen in this country, but is much more common in France and Belgium."

The matter was not discussed at last night's meeting due to pressure on time, but council leader Peter Britcliffe today welcomed the plan.

He said: "The residents of Oswaldtwistle said they felt this square was a problem and that they did not feel they could use it because of the problems with youngsters.

"It is, of course, subject to approval but hopefully it will be a vast improvement."