PLANS to close a well-used alleyway could hit trade at a popular shop, its owner has claimed.

Jason Hall, who runs a newsagents in Shadsworth Road, Blackburn, said the council was ignoring the wishes of residents by closing off the alley that links Brownlow Street and Tarbert Crescent.

The alley is set to be gated by Blackburn with Darwen Council after complaints from a handful of residents that it was becoming a haven for youths.

But Mr Hall, whose father Tom took over the shop in 1971, claims the alley, which is across the road from his business, is a vital link for residents of the Shadsworth Estate, especially elderly people and young families.

Scores of residents have also put their names to a petition calling for the alley to be left open.

Mr Hall said: “In today's climate it is a worry that this is happening because businesses need all the trade they can get.

“This could have a massive impact on us but it seems that the opinions of local people don't count. We are being ignored.”

When proposals to close the alley were originally mooted back in October, a petition of over 300 signatures was handed into Blackburn with Darwen Council, but Mr Hall said it was ignored.

Residents have now drawn up another petition in a last ditch attempt to stop the unwanted closure going ahead.

Mr Hall, an ever present figure behind the counter at the family run shop, said: “In a morning the alley is very well used by families off Shadsworth Road or the Romney Walk area heading for the junior school.

“It also allows elderly people off Tarbert Crescent and surrounding roads to get to the shop for essentials.

That option would not be open to them if the alley is closed.

“This must be stopped. The views of people who live and work in Shadsworth are being ignored.”

Coun James Shorrock, who represents the Shadsworth and Whitebirk ward, said he would address a meeting at Blackburn town Hall on July 13 regarding the issue.

He said: “The wishes of the community need to be listened to with regards to this alley gating.

“There are a lot of issues around disability access and school access that have not been addressed and they need to be looked at.”