FURTHER plans to enhance Blackpool's Birley Street have been unveiled - this time to install seating in the shape of seashells.

The area has already been pedestrianised as part of a scheme to rejuvenate the town centre with cash from the Government's Single Regeneration Budget.

Now, Blackpool Borough Council is considering ways of extending the project, with ideas such as the white Portland stone seats, a gateway with two life-size bronze dancers, tree planting and hanging baskets.

Council bosses still have to discuss their proposals with artists, government officials and the board of Blackpool Challenge Partnership, but work costing in the region of £91,000 is expected to go ahead in the new year if accepted.

Blackpool's chief engineer John Shaw feels the seating would add a practical and aesthetic dimension to the street.

He said: "There is a distinct lack of public art in the town and the funding by SRB money, which was identified for this type of work, will allow the introduction of these new features.

"Together with the environmental works they will make the town centre more attractive for residents and visitors."

Mr Shaw added the funding was specifically for artwork features and could not be used for other works such as housing and road repairs, for which the council had to make other arrangements.

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