BLACKBURN market traders' eyes are glazing over with glee at the sight of £230,000 worth of refurbishments to boost their businesses.

The market area is to be given an exterior gloss to bring it up to scratch with recent transformations to the shopping precinct. The overhead walkway, which links the Ainsworth Street side of the shopping precinct with the markets, will be completely redecorated with new flooring and extra lighting and the bottom of the rotunda staircase will be completely enclosed to improve security.

It is the first part of the major town centre's revamp project witnessed by new shopping centre manager Eamonn Furlong. He said: "This is a very positive step forward. I am in favour of any refurbishment which improves the quality of life for shoppers in the town centre."

Councillor Andy Kay, the council's regeneration committee chairman, said: "This work represents the next phase of the improvement work which has been taking place at Blackburn Markets over the last two years.

"The walkway is to be given an exterior glaze and there are numerous interior improvements which will make shopping in Blackburn a pleasant, and safer experience for local people and visitors."

The work will take about 13 weeks and the walkway will be closed during that time. Ainsworth Street will also close during off peak times, between 7pm and 5am.

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