COUNCIL chiefs are ‘optimistic of a positive outcome’ ahead of the publication of development plans for Clitheroe’s 900-year-old market.

Nelson-based firm Barnfield Construction Ltd were given an exclusive six-month option to submit plans to regenerate the site by Ribble Valley Borough Council.

The full details on the multi-million pound revamp are set to be published before the next policy and finance committee meeting.

Coun Simon Hore, the council’s deputy leader, said: “We are very optimistic that we will be able to push forward with this.

“The plans first need to go to the policy and finance committee.

“Barnfield have been in regular contact with council officers.”

The next committee meeting is set to be held in June.