DARWEN business people have expressed their optimism for the centre's regeneration after a meeting with council bosses.

Market stallholders and shop workers are keen for plans to get under way and are hopeful that the council will soon secure the funds to give Darwen a much-needed facelift.

Alec Boyland, owner of A & S Wilkinson Fruit and Vegetable stall on the market annexe, said: "No promises were made at the meeting because the money hasn't been secured yet but we just have to hope that it all comes off.

"It was a very good meeting and I think a lot of people know a lot more about what the council is trying to achieve now."

Connie Buxton, owner of Buxton's Family Baker's on Bridge Street, said: "It was a very positive meeting and I thought it was done very well. There's obviously a very long way to go but I'm confident that some good will come of it."

Coun Paul Browne said: "It's about working on the entire town centre and Bridge Street needs real attention because of the horrendous traffic around that area."

Eileen Helliwell, owner of Helliwell's Shoe Repairs on Bridge Street, said: "We want Darwen people to be involved in the regeneration and it's important that Bridge Street is one of the main focuses because it needs to be pedestrianised and limited parking needs to be introduced for shoppers."