RESIDENTS in Great Harwood have aired their views about their town in the hope that a £20,000 study will go some way to improving it.

Among suggestions put forward at a public consultation to regeneration experts Business Environments, were proposals to use old buildings for new developments rather than simply boarding them up and ignoring them, improving leisure facilities to cater for all abilities and disabilities and rethinking the idea of a traditional shopping centre.

Members of the public were invited to write down their suggestions and pin them up on a board of ideas.

Peter Crompton, who is leading the team of consultants, said: "We were very pleased with the response from local residents and businesses who took the time to talk to us and complete questionnaires.

"A wide range of issues and ideas came out of the consultations. And while we are still analysing all the comments received it is clear there is still strong civic pride in the town and a particular desire to see environmental improvements to public areas and the town centre which will put the Great back into Great Harwood."

Business Environments were allocated £20,000 by Lancashire County Council for a planning, land and property study. Representatives from Hyndburn Borough Council, The Accrington, Church and Great Harwood Partnership and the Great Harwood Area Council are also involved with the project.

The study into the causes of problems in the town will be completed in January and will then be used as a blueprint to target those areas that will most benefit from regeneration.

Anyone else in the area who has not yet participated can call the consultants to make further suggestions or request a questionnaire on 01925 844 000.