BUSINESSES in Darwen town centre have responded positively to a survey of their performance and prospects for the future.

More than half (55 per cent) reported their trade was the same or better than the previous year and 72 per cent were satisfied or very satisfied with their performance.

Asked by The Retail Group about the prospects of trade over the next 12 months, 22 per cent expected it to improve, 35 per cent stay the same and 37 per cent though it would decline.

Out of 87 traders sent the survey commissioned by Darwen Town Council, 66 replied.

Retail Group managing director Mike Evans said: “For a first time survey that is an excellent response and showed a high level of interest in the town centre and its future.”

More than 90 per cent of respondents said they would stay in Darwen town centre with two per cent proposing to expand and three per cent relocate within it.

After the results were presented to the town council meeting on Thursday, Cllr Lynn Perkins said: “There is a clearly a positive vibe among town centre traders.”

But she expressed concern about the short-term impact of charging for the Atlas Road and Railway Road car parks on the centre.

Cllr John East asked for the borough council to look at reversing bus lanes to speed public transport into the town.

Cllr Roy Davies seized upon a 41 per cent figure in favour of a Darwen Business Initiative to call for a group similar to Blackburn BID to be set up.

Cllr Neil Slater doubted if the town’s traders would pay the required levy on council tax.

Cllr Dave Smith, whose Sunnyhurst ward covers the town centre, said: “The traders response showed a very good, positive and optimistic outlook for Darwen and their businesses but there are things to improve.

“The two car parks facing charges are used by rail commuters to Manchester.”

The main areas where traders wanted improvements were more banks and dry cleaners. more big ‘destination’ retail stores and more independent shops.

The evening/night-time economy, catering mix, ease of accessibility and good parking were all rated highly.