MORE High Street "names", a better town centre bus service, a multiplex cinema and better security would bring shoppers back into Nelson, a major survey of local people has revealed.

More than eight out of ten people who took part in a consultation on the future of the town said they would spend more in the centre given the right opportunities and incentives.

Restaurants and an entertainment hall were also high on the list of priorities but extra security such as CCTV cameras and better lighting would have to be introduced to persuade people it was safe to venture into the centre at night, according to the report by Janet Bradbury, Pendle Council's development director.

Local people were asked their views on multi-million pound proposals to rejuvenate the town centre and reverse the decline it has suffered in recent years.

Almost 80 people responded during exhibitions outlining the five-year regeneration strategy which were held in the town in November. Nearly 70 per cent said they wanted more High Street chains while just 15 per cent said Nelson should remain a small market town with specialised shops.

Just over half of those responding said they would use a Hopper bus service between the centre and the nearby Morrison's store currently being built and due to open in the autumn but 41 per cent said they would not. The good news for the supermarket chain is that more than three-quarters of people said they would use the store.

Seven out of ten people would use a cinema in Nelson if there was one while more restaurants and leisure facilities would be appreciated and draw more people in to the town.

Plans to extend the pedestrianised areas were opposed by local traders who fear it will drive passing customers away.

Planning consultants Donaldsons, who drew up the strategy, have taken on board the suggestions and several changes to the blueprint have been made. Bids have gone in for funding from the Pendle Partnership's Single Regeneration Budget to pay for improvements to the centre over the next two years.

"If the appearance of the town can be improved, the links created between the new supermarket and the town centre, and the voids in the Admiral shopping centre filled, Nelson should be in a better position to reverse the decline and attract new retailers and businesses," said Mrs Bradbury. "This in turn should encourage further private sector investment."

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