A SHORT-break summer - that was the story of a better peak season for Blackpool holiday traders after last year's weather-hit disaster.

Sunshine brought the impulse visitors in greater numbers but hoteliers have to take one-night stays if they want to thrive, said Blackpool Hotel and Guest House Association secretary Josie Hammond.

"There's been a growing tendency to stay just for one night," said Mrs Hammond, "not just in Blackpool but throughout the country. The business has been there for those who will cater for short breaks, but some people would still rather remain empty than take one-night stays, which is why quite a few are struggling.

"Those who'll take one-nighters have had a good year - it's all about supply and demand. People are more mobile and they do things on the spur of the moment nowadays."

Shopkeepers have also had a better summer than last year, reported town centre manager Nigel Hanson but trade was patchy - up one weekend, down the next.

But major changes are on the way which should boost trade across the board. He said: "There's a lot of optimism in Blackpool's long-term future as a retail base.

"The town centre has improved so much in the last four years, not just in terms of shopping, but safety and ambience. Crime rates have gone down and continental cafs, pedestrian streets, festivals and hanging baskets have all played their part.

"Blackpool's got everything to play for and I'm hoping this next year we'll see some major positive developments."

These include a proposed 14-acre redevelopment at the back of the town, demolishing the 1930s-built Talbot Road bus station and replacing a host of older buildings with a new eight-screen cinema, foodstore, retail warehouse, 1,200-space car park and bus facility.

London-based Chelverton Properties are drawing up a planning application and negotiating with existing landowners.

Debenhams are also reported to be negotiating to open a new department store in the town - the Hounds Hill shopping centre is favourite as its location.

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