DESIGNS for the improvement of Cottam's road network recently went on display for members of the Commission for New Towns.

The works, designed for the CNT by Lancashire County Council, will complete the through-road linking Tom Benson Way and Lea Road, expected to open shortly.

Also included were plans for the roundabout at Lea Road which is already in use.

The CNT is promoting a new township at Cottam Hall which, by the year 2006, will accommodate 8,000 people and will include a district centre and range of local facilities.

Dick Dingsdale, CNT's planning and technical services director, said: "For more than 25 years, the New Town Movement in Lancashire has been working closely with the county council and we have found that authority to be most supportive and practical.

"CNT regularly works with the council's highways consultancy in design and planning infrastructure.

"The council has done an excellent job at Cottam, on time and to a good finish."

County coun Brian Johnson, vice-chair of highways and transportation, said: "This is a long and successful partnership which has resulted in considerable economic, commercial and environmental benefits for the people of Lancashire.

"The latest commission is a demonstration the council's engineering capabilities and their commitment to deliver work to agreed deadlines and high standards of quality."

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