SPY cameras could soon be watching over Leyland town centre under proposals submitted to borough planners.

The arrival of CCTV is being seen as major step towards creating a shopping area the borough can be proud of - and one people feel safe to use.

South Ribble Borough Council has already secured the backing of the Preston and South Ribble Partnership if they wish to make a bid for the camera network, which would complement existing crime-busting techniques in the town.

A feasibility study will assess the need for CCTV - if it would make the public feel safer.

Council leader Gina Lewis said: "As part of our regeneration plans, we are looking at every aspect of improving the town.

"CCTV is something we are looking as a way of fulfilling our desire to improve the town if we can prove there is a need for it and it is something people will want."

The Preston and South Ribble Partnership were instrumental in helping Preston secure funding for the spy cameras.

In other parts of Lancashire, such as Blackburn, the arrival of CCTV has sparked a rise in crime in neighbouring towns, such as Darwen and Accrington.

But Coun Lewis added: "That hasn't been the case here but the cameras would be very helpful in providing evidence, as has been proved by in-store cameras already used in the town.

Other plans to be considered by the newly renamed Leyland town centre sub-committee in their quest to improve the town centre include the possible creation of pavement cafes, town centre events, new shop fronts and street art.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.