COUNCIL bosses in Pendle are determined to "stop the rot" and make Nelson a busy thriving town centre once more.

A strategy is being formulated by Leeds-based consultants Donaldsons and next week work begins on surveying dozens of shopkeepers to find out what they think and collating the views of potential retailers.

Donaldsons was the company behind the rejuvenation of Halifax, which is now a busy centre, and London's Covent Garden.

Associate Liz Dickinson said: "We want to stem the decline of the town and a great step the council has taken is to recognise that there is a problem."

Pendle Partnership, the organisation which manages the Single Regeneration Budget, is backing the scheme and helping to deliver and collect questionnaires.

Stephen Barnes, chief executive of Pendle Council, said: "The improvements to Burnley town centre have had a knock-on effect in Nelson. We want to improve Nelson so we can win back that custom and attract new customers."

Plans by Morrisons to open a supermarket in the town will also be incorporated into any plan which will link the new development with the existing shops.

Council leader Coun Alan Davies said: "The reality is that years ago people were saying the same about Colne as they now do of Nelson, and 10 to 12 years later Colne is a busy shopping centre."

The strategy will also look at making improvements to Colne by examining traffic problems and making environmental improvements.

By September, the strategy should be ready and it will go out to public consultation in November.

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