A SCHEME to introduce extra parking bays in a busy Colne town centre street would cost nearly £50,000.

Councillors had agreed last autumn to look at costs for installing parking bays outside 28-34 Albert Road, following a request from shopkeepers. Now they must decide whether to press ahead with the plans.

Neil Yates, of Pendle Council, said in a report: “The creation of kerbside parking without amending the existing footway width is not feasible due to the negative impact it would have on two-way traffic flow on Albert Road and sightlines for drivers joining Albert Road from Derby Street and Spring Lane.

“Apparatus belonging to British Telecom, Electricity North West and National Grid would be affected by the proposed scheme and diversionary works would be required to enable parking bays to be constructed.

“The estimated cost of the proposal, including the necessary service diversions, is £49,971.”