WORRIED traders in Bolton Street, Bury, fear the town's cheapest local authority car park could close unless more people use it.

Now, the chairman of the Bolton Street Business Club is anxious to promote the facility at nearby Castlecroft in a bid to safeguard its future.

Mrs Yvonne Wright, who runs the Irresistible boutique in Bolton Street, said: "The traders are concerned we may lose this car park unless it's used more by the public.

"Obviously, such a car park is an advantage to businesses in Bolton Street because of the footfall."

Bury Council originally opened the Castlecroft car park on a trial basis between April and October last year. At that time, motorists could park free of charge.

The car park reopened again in April for an unspecified trial period. Drivers only pay £1 to park as opposed to £1.80 in other council-run parking areas.

Mrs Wright feels many people in the town who would use the Castlecroft car park may be unaware it actually exists.

She is also concerned council bosses ordered a banner publicising the facility, draped over railings at the corner of Irwell Street, be taken down.

"It does seem a little unfair," added Mrs Wright. "We've since moved it to a field behind a fence."

The chairman hopes publicity surrounding the Castlecroft car park will encourage many more motorists to use it and thereby secure its future.

The car park is manned and open six days a week, except Sunday.

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