PLANS to increase the number of taxi stands in Clitheroe have been welcomed.

Proposals are being put forwarded to create two spaces outside the Platform Gallery in Station Road and three spaces in the market place.

The stand in the Market Place will operate at night time between 10pm and 2am while the Station Road one will be 24 hours in an area that is currently used by members of the public to park and is close to the bus station.

According to a report produced for Ribble Valley Council’s licensing committee, taxi drivers had made the request a number of months ago.

However an overall review of traffic orders for Castle Street, Market Place and York Street ,which was due to be carried out by Lancashire County Council, has stalled following the election.

Now Ribble Valley Council has proposed making its own order.

The plans have been discussed with local police officers, whose response was positive, according to the report.

Cllr Allan Knox, whose ward covers Station Road, said the move will regularise what is already happening.

He said: “I do not think this will involve much change.

“As there are no major bus services using that stop I do not see this being a problem. Quite often you turn up now and there are taxis waiting there.”

Of the Market Street rank, he said: “The main taxi rank is in King Lane and there used to be a problem with cars going all round the top and bottom.

“It makes perfect sense to have one in Market Place. It will make it easier for people to get a taxi and reduce the number of people congregating in one area.”

Charlie Oakes, of the Hackney Drivers Association, said: “I am delighted to hear that a proposal is being made to look at the ranking situation in Clitheroe and I wish they would do the same in other areas.”