TOWN hall chiefs have pledged to re-open two run-down car parks in time for Christmas.

But a leading trader has criticised Burnley Council for making the sites, in Active Way, pay and display.

Retail giant Homebase is set to open a DIY and garden super store that will create 45 jobs in the area next Easter.

As part of the project, the firm has agreed to pay for the renovation of the two public car parks, between Active Way and Calder Vale Road, as well as the costs for the installation of a new pedestrian crossing.

However, the car sites – set to be used by shoppers and town centre workers – are to be fitted with pay and display machines, rather than with the pay on exit technology now favoured by most councils.

George Heys, president of the Burnley Chamber of Trade, criticised council bosses for the decision saying it could hit the coffers of the town centre businesses.

He said: “I really do think we should have car parks that are pay on exit.

“People coming into town sometimes pay for 40 minutes and then end up rushing around to get back to their car.

“But if it’s pay on exit, people tend to stay longer, maybe go for a coffee and generally end up spending more money.

“I am disappointed they are making it a pay and display site.”

However, Burnley Council has stood by its decision, pointing out that the bill for the car park improvements is being footed by Homebase.

A spokesman said: “These car parks have not been well used in the past but as part of the development, Homebase has agreed for them to be renovated.

“That will create about 100 spaces and we are hoping that will be in time for Christmas.”