COUNTY highways bosses have refused to even discuss proposals by Nelson traders to provide extra short-stay car parking in the town centre.

Nelson Town Centre Forum, representing local shopkeepers, suggested the disabled parking area in Manchester Road could be extended to include some 30-minute short-stay spaces for people wanting to 'pop in' at one or two shops or the bank.

But a letter from the county council's highways department to Pendle Council said the issue would not be put to the county's highways and transportation committee for its views, because it goes against local and national policy.

The letter, on behalf of Lancashire's environment director Graham Harding, said the proposed extension would cut the pedestrianised shopping area, reduce the number of disabled spaces and encourage people to use cars instead of public transport.

"The first two are generally undesirable and the third is clearly contrary to the spirit of local and national policy," it adds.

"Suitable alternative car parks available to the general public and with generous time restrictions, are very close at hand and I would also have safety concerns for increased vehicle manoeuvres in this confined area, where people with disabilities will be prevalent."

The letter said it was not appropriate to put the scheme to the highways committee because it was a clear breach of policy.

The issue will go to Pendle Council's Nelson area committee on Monday.

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