A BRAND new start has been pledged for a run-down area which council bosses hope to turn into Blackburn's answer to the famous Curry Mile in Manchester.

They claim a new image, such as calling the area around Blackburn's Victoria Street, the Whalley Range Bazaar' will help attract new investment, shoppers and tourism.

Council bosses aim to build on the blossoming mini-economy in the Whalley Range area, already home to a variety of ethnic shops and businesses.

Now they have put their ideas out to consultation, with local people urged to come forward and have their say. And they plan to have their ideas confirmed by the summer.

Under the plans, millions of pounds, yet to be secured by the council, would be spent improving the look of the area, making it easier to reach from the main town centre, and creating new shops.

The consultation document, sent to hundreds of homes, claims tens of thousands of people already come to the Whalley Range area to enjoy its specialist music, film, food, spices, fabric, fashions and beauty accessories shops.

A variety of ideas are suggested, including improvements to local buildings to make them look nicer and provide new retail space.

Public art around Barbara Castle Way, or a new landmark building, is planned to give the area a focal point in the same way Manchester's Chinatown is dominated by an oriental arch.

Improved pedestrian links to the town centre because Barbara Castle Way is currently cutting it off from the main shopping area are seen as vital, along with a one-way system along Victoria Street, with the road reduced to just one lane to make it more attractive for pedestrians.

Support for new businesses is also being pledged, along with a national campaign to attract new entrepreneurs to the area.

A final plan should be completed by the middle of this year, and Coun Andy Kay, executive member for regeneration at Blackburn with Darwen Council, said: "We want to support the development of the area so it reaches its potential.

"But it is important people have their say."

Zaheer Hussain, chairman of the Whalley Range Business Group and owner of Cafe Dil, Victoria Street, said: "The Whalley Range Bazaar vision is a great opportunity to brand a thriving business community within Blackburn."

Copies of the consultation document are available by calling 01254 585630.