WORK has started on 10 new parking spaces in Scotland Road in Nelson town centre.

It follows campaigning from the Scotland Road Traders' Association for help in making their businesses more accessible to local shoppers.

The parking will occupy the space between Harry Garlick’s Electrical Shop and the Nawab Sweet Centre.

No vehicles will be allowed on to the area while the work is being done, and the scheme is expected to take three to four weeks to complete.

Coun Joe Cooney, leader of Pendle Council, said: “We are pleased to have been able to secure funding totalling £85,000 from Lancashire County Council and the High Street Innovation Fund to carry out this work.

“It’s something the Scotland Road traders have been keen to see happen for a while and will help to bring more activity to that area of Nelson.

“There will be disruption to the area during this period, but please be assured that the businesses will still be accessible to shoppers and that the long-term benefits will outweigh any short-term inconvenience."

County Coun Azhar Ali, who has responsibility for Nelson South, added: “The regeneration of Nelson is really important to Lancashire County Council. We want to help businesses to expand and make sure the future of Scotland Road is secure.

“That's why we’ve found match funding and put in extra resources to ensure Nelson gets its fair share.

“This has all been done because we listened to local businesses and fought our corner for the town.”