UNDER fire councillors in Rawtenstall have come face to face with traders opposed to plans to introduce a town centre parking scheme.

Council members and officers were quizzed on plans for the second time in 24 hours.

On Wednesday night, residents rounded on the council at a similar meeting at the Astoria, in Rawtenstall.

And the following night, it was the turn of the town's traders to confront Rossendale Council.

Around 150 people packed out the Astoria to oppose proposals which could see workers being forced to pay up to £800 a year for parking in Rawtenstall Town Centre.

Clive Balchin, president of the Rossendale Chamber of Commerce, said: "Most people in Rawtenstall aren't on big wages. We don't mind paying but we need a reasonable scheme where we can pay an acceptable amount each month."

The chamber has sent a letter to the council in response to the meeting and asked for a meeting with Coun Nick Pilling, chairman of its development, regeneration and environment committee.

In the letter he states: "What is required is Rossendale's equivalent of a 'white paper' on Rawtenstall town centre that would encompass everything from parking to the Valley Centre.

"It is clear from public reaction the council has got it wrong and they should have enough common sense to take this matter back to the drawing board."

The chamber and the Rossendale Chartists group have given alternative suggestions, including a park-and-ride scheme.

New Hall Hey cricket field, which has been closed for years, has been identified as a car park to be used by commuters by the two groups.