WOMEN are to be asked for their views on radical alterations to traffic routes proposed by Blackburn with Darwen Council.

The authority plans to use existing roads to create an orbital route around the town centre for motorists who want to travel from one side of town to the other.

Highways bosses want to see Church Street and Darwen Street used only by people who are shopping in the town centre, in an effort to make them more pedestrian-friendly.

The aim of the changes is to make the Boulevard and railway station along with the soon-to-be-opened retail park on Russell Street feel more as if they are part of the town centre. But in all the consultations there have been few responses from women.

A women's transport strategy group is being set up with the aim of seeking the view of female users of public transport, shopping areas and parking areas before final plans are completed.

Highways officer Harriet Newberry says in her report: "Items which will be addressed include fears for personal safety in relation to easing access into town from existing and proposed parking areas.

"The group will initially comprise of leading members of larger stores in the town centre and representatives from women's groups.

"It is envisaged that the consultation will widen to a larger group following initial consultations."

The highways and transport committee will discuss it tonight.

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