A NEW security partnership for one of the largest shopping parades in Burnley has been launched by police.

Neighbourhood officers have signed up several traders along Colne Road, Briercliffe Road and surrounding areas to join the proposed Queensgate Business Watch initiative.

Dozens of small businesses are in operation from Duke Bar to the Prairie, as well as a number of larger concerns like Lidl, One Stop and KFC.

Shopkeepers and councillors have spoken out in support of the scheme, which came about following shoplifting concerns highlighted by traders.

Several options are open to the fledgling scheme, including a radio link, so staff can alert other retailers about suspected thieves, to outright bans from anyone caught stealing in Queensgate.

Coun Darren Reynolds, who represents the Queensgate ward on Burnley Council, said, "This is good timing.

"The Duke Bar, Colne Road and Briercliffe Road shopping area is probably the second main area in Burnley after the town centre.

“We have a good offer here and we want shops to be able to display their products in the most open and friendly way. That helps to bring customers in and to build loyalty.

"Whilst the problems with shoplifting are not really any different to the rest of Burnley, it is common sense to focus on the main shopping areas at this time.”

Pc Nigel Keates, Queensgate community beat manager, said: “Several businesses have been approached and signed up to the scheme.”

The scheme, which was also identified as a priority by Pc Keates’ predecessor, Pc Ivan Brown, is expected to be launched within the next couple of weeks.

Shabaz Ahmed, of Booze Bargains, in Duke Bar, said: “It is a good idea because there is a problem with shoplifting.”