A NEW strategy has been drawn up to help businesses prosper after a major survey.

A survey of businesses across the county was carried out by the county council to find out what firms think should be done to improve the local economy.

"The results from this survey have reinforced the importance of understanding the needs and wants of businesses in Lancashire," said County Councillor George Slynn, chairman of Lancashire County Council's planning, industrial development and tourism.

"We need to attract quality development and investment for employment needs to Lancashire without compromising the needs of residents."

The survey findings were discussed at a forum made up of councillors and business leaders which met in Chorley.

The forum found that local authority planning services needed to work more closely with business and Chamber of Commerce to help them understand and have input to the planning system.

The survey also found that the local business community was changing rapidly due to advances in technology and communications.

"In Lancashire we need to promote these strengths to be recognised as an attractive place for investment."

As well as council leaders the Forum was made up of representatives of Enterprise plc, North West Development Agency, Chamabers of Commerce and BT.