CONSTRUCTION has started on a major improvement scheme aimed at bringing shoppers into Nelson.

Improvements will be carried out in the Market Square area over the next 10 weeks to improve pedestrian links between the centre and the new Morrison's supermarket nearing completion on the former Seed Hill Mill site.

It is part of a £1 million package of improvements aimed at revitalising the town.

Wellington Street, Every Street, Market Square, Market Street and Cross Street will be affected by the work, which will later move into the Place de Creil, Manchester Road, Broadway and the bus station. Some roads will be closed while work goes ahead but planners hope disruption will be kept to a minimum.

Pendle Council plans to use local engineering firms to make new street furniture such as railings, seats and canopies.

Groundwork East Lancashire will involve local schools in the production of specially designed panels to feature in railings planned for Market Square. The environmental group is also in the process of designing a mural for a blank wall in Sagar Street, opposite the bus station.

Tony Beckett, chairman of the town centre forum which represents traders and businesses, said: "The forum has been working for several years now to encourage development in the town. The proposed improvements will help create the right climate for investment."

Shopkeeper Norman Mitchell, who owns The Pet Shop, Market Square, added: "I think that this programme of work will be of real benefit to traders and shoppers in Nelson. It will greatly improve the appearance and convenience of the town centre and should provide local people with a more pleasant shopping experience."

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