A SPECIAL task force focused on Radcliffe town centre may extend its influence further afield.

The town's area board town centre sub-group is considering including other areas such as Ainsworth, Bradley Fold and Water Street into its remit. The suggestion was made at a meeting on Tuesday (Aug 15) by sub-group chairman Louise Witts.

She said: "It is very clear that some of the main issues raised by this group apply to areas other than the town centre.

"It is also clear that Radcliffe is a large and diverse town and it is important that centres of activity outside the actual town centre are not ignored."

It is proposed that all areas of Radcliffe where retail or other business activity takes place be catered for by the sub-group.

Miss Witts added: "There are many businesses, shops, leisure facilities and activities which may currently feel excluded from developments.

"We need to bring these people in to build on the work so far and extend that vitality and vibrancy at which we aim to all areas of Radcliffe."

But other members of the group have urged caution. Radcliffe councillor Steve Perkins said: "I am worried that the group will lose focus from specific town centre issues and that people will lose out."

It was a view shared by fellow councillor Barry Briggs, who said: "It might be too soon to extend."

The group agreed to do more work into looking at the feasibility of Miss Witts' suggestion before making any firm decisions.