BRITISH Waterways could be forced to clean up Foulridge Wharf by Pendle Council.

The old dairy and tearooms both belong to British Waterways, which is responsible for the upkeep of the canal.

But councillors have become increasingly concerned about the state of the area and Foulridge Parish Council has called for the Colne and District area committee to put it on its 'problem sites' list.

Pendle Council will now consider using new powers to force the organisation to tidy up the area and has demanded answers over the future of the two neglected buildings.

Coun Alan Davies said: "Thousands of pounds were spent by the council creating the wharf and it is obvious nobody has spent a penny on it since. There is an old derelict caravan on there and it is strewn with litter.

"It is an appalling message to people who have come to visit our towns. If there is a legal way of doing it we will be down there tomorrow with a vehicle to remove the derelict caravan.

"British Waterways is still reluctant to relinquish the lease on the tearooms. Who on earth has property that people want to open up and use and pay them money for, and doesn't get on with it?

"We deserve an explanation and the people of Foulridge deserve an explanation. Foulridge is a prime tourist area and we've got to do everything we can to ensure it is right."

Executive member for the environment, Coun John David, who is leading a new clampdown on litter, said British Waterways and Network Rail were both in the council's sights.

He added: "We are examining the situation to ensure both bodies join in with our campaign and get their areas tidied up. Whatever acts we can use, we will."

British Waterways was unavailable for comment.