AMBITIOUS plans for a transport network for Preston has been singled out for praise by the government.

The Department of Environment, Transport and the Regions (DETR) has written to Lancashire County Council to pledge their support for a Total Transport Network (TTN) and to express interest in working closely with the authority to develop the scheme.

The network aims to radically overhaul Preston's transport system. By combining all types of transport, Preston is looking to lead the rest of the country in the future of travel.

A county council report said that more cash could be earmarked for the scheme through the European Commission's Clean Urban Transport initiative.

County councillors are now in discussions with potential European partners to develop new transport schemes.

The transport network could bring massive benefits to the Preston area by reducing traffic problems and pollution and by increasing the accessibility, safety and commercial attractiveness of the area.

County councillor Richard Toon, chair of Lancashire's highways and transportation committee, said it is encouraging the the government are taking such an interest in the scheme.

He said: "The Total Transport Network will see an investment of more than £20 million in the local transport infrastructure over the next three years, which is a very significant investment for the area.

"We have agreed an early investment of £350,000 in the project in 2001/2002 and expect further funding will be made available.

"The scheme aims to radically change the face of transport in the Preston area and make everyday travel for local people easier and more efficient and to make Preston more attractive to out-of-town visitors."