PLANS for traffic lights in Centenary Way, Burnley, should be given the red light, says the town's MP, Peter Pike.

The lights are proposed in connection with plans for a new foodstore and petrol station with access from the dual carriageway.

Mr Pike's objections will be considered by Burnley planning committee next Thursday.

He said he strongly believed that Burnley did not need another major retail food store.

And he strongly opposed any traffic light access to any kind of store development on the site. He said: "I believe the central reservation should be retained, and closure of the openings, which took place when the former Ribble Garage closed, was right.

"It is a 40mph road and there is a bend at this point.

"In my view, traffic can appropriately turn round at the roundabouts at either end.

"To put traffic lights at this point is not, in my view, either sensible or acceptable.''

Mr Pike added there was a strong case for traffic lights at the Red Lion Street junction with Centenary Way.

He said: "It is better for the bus station and better for public access to the town centre.''

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