A FORUM on the future of public transport in Lancashire in the 21st century was taking place today at Preston Guild Hall with more than 500 organisations represented, including rail and bus operators, environmental groups, professional transport planners and business representatives.

A consultation process with the people of Lancashire has already started and questionnaires have been sent to libraries, county information centres, town halls and public buildings throughout the county.

Councils nationwide have been told by the Government to draw up local transport plans in a bid to take cars from the road and encourage people to use buses and trains instead.

Lancashire County Council leader Coun John West said: "Preparations for the local transport plan in the year 2000 are going to be vastly different to anything we have seen before.

"The plan we submit to the government in July 2000 will be made up from the many views we receive not only from businesses and organisations, but from the residents of Lancashire who have first hand knowledge of our road and rail networks.

Coun Richard Toon, chairman of the council's highways and transport committee added: "We will actively be seeking views from local people, businesses and organisations right around the county."

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