I READ with some interest the continuing plethora of comment on proposed changes to the centre of Blackburn and its traffic management system.

For some time now, this company has held regular meetings with officers of Blackburn with Darwen Council regarding issues that affect its day-to-day operation. As a result of that regular dialogue, we find ourselves in a position where real progress can be achieved.

We have taken the stance that we feel that the correct forum for debate on operational matters that affect us is directly with the people who can influence change and not through the press.

The one burning issue that has not been addressed in recent comment is the consultation process that followed the recent production of Blackburn with Darwen's local transport plan.

At a series of three well-publicised meetings, this company was represented at the local transport plan seminars. This was a real opportunity for people to meet not only councillors but officers of the council to air their views and discuss the proposals.

I attended two of the three seminars and we were represented at the third. I was amazed and disappointed at the low number of people that turned out to what was their chance to speak in open forum. Having lost that chance, they now resort to a trial by press.

Unfortunately, not everything that is done will suit all of the people all of the time, but surely, any project that has a chance of improving a town centre's image should be given due consideration and a chance, as the end result will be increased prosperity for both bus operators (bringing in more people to an improved town centre) and to traders (as a result of more shopping in a traffic-free environment).

MICHAEL MORTON, Managing Director, Blackburn Transport Buses.