A NEW taxi rank is to be created in Bacup in a bid to solve the area's problems with drink-related violence.

Those behind the move hope it will help reduce crime in the town centre and increase business for taxi drivers and local traders.

Taxi drivers have been complaining for years about the lack of parking provision for hackney carriages in Bacup.

In the past it has been first come, first served for the one space available on St James' Square.

But a report due to go to Rossendale's full council meeting on Wednesday has recommended appointing Lumb Scar as a hackney carriage stand with 12 spaces.

Taxis will be allowed to operate from the stand 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Lancashire Constabulary have supported the move in the hope that it will contribute to reducing crime in the town centre with cars being highly visible.

Ann Kenyon, secretary of Rossendale Taxi Association, said: "There have been a lot of problems in Bacup in the past because there has been nowhere for the hackney drivers to park.

"Businesses have suffered because of this, but thanks to the co-operation of the traders, Rossendale Council and the taxi companies this seems to be a highly suitable compromise that will help boost trade in Bacup town centre."

A study carried out by researchers at Portsmouth University into the causes of alcohol related violence found most incidents were caused by a lack of taxi ranks - with people becoming aggressive because they could not get a taxi.

And today the news was welcomed by traders.

Carmel Coaker, owner of Bacup News, in St James' Street, said traders do all they can to improve custom in the town but two stores in the high street were closing at the end of September.

She said: "Anything that will improve trade in the town is a very good thing.

"We are pleased there is going to be a place just for taxis and people will know it is for them.

"I just hope it all works out."