A NOTORIOUS accident blackspot is to be targeted in the first phase of major changes to traffic flows in and around Blackburn town centre.

The Copy Nook area has been the scene of 60 injury accidents during the last five years, many of them at the junction where Higher Audley Street meets Higher Eanam.

A new proposed traffic management scheme would see a one way system of traffic to take cars travelling from Copy Nook into Higher Audley Street and down Higher Barn Street on to Higher Eanam.

The plans are part of a wider scheme to reduce the amount of traffic flowing through the town centre and encourage motorists to use an orbital route around the town. Two derelict shops on Higher Eanam would be demolished and a new link road connecting Higher Eanam with Higher Audley Street is proposed.

Retailers and other business in the area are being asked for their views. Bus companies are also being asked for their thoughts. Councillor Andy Kay, chairman of the council's regeneration committee said: Blackburn has great potential to become the largest and most successful shopping and leisure venue in the county.

"Transport and regeneration initiatives will go hand in hand to help realise that potential.

Councillor Ashley Whalley, chairman of the highways and transport committee, said: "The Copy Nook proposal is one of seven schemes which will form the Blackburn orbital route.

"We are aiming to cut down a serious accident problem which has caused a headache for Police and motorists."

Proposals include the creation of a purpose-built cycle path that extends an existing path straight into the centre of town, and a special bus lane.

Work is likely to begin in March and people wishing to comment should ring 01254 680178.

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