REGARDING your reports (LET, October 1 and 2) about the hold-ups being experienced by motorists at Lower Audley, Blackburn, and the trading difficulties of businesses in the area, the Chamber of Trade acknowledges the need Blackburn has for traffic circulation to be improved and understands the time element to complete all the work required for the new orbital route in order to secure grant funding.

But we are not at ease with so many areas being affected all at the same time, especially since Church Street was closed prior to the current works being carried out, though, again, this was necessary in order to receive grant funding.

We are aware of the alterations required for the new orbital route and have, for some time, liaised monthly with the town hall traffic officers. Where we could see probable difficulties these have been discussed and suggested adjustments have been carried out.

Our president, town hall traffic officers and traders have held on site meetings to reach amicable solutions, when difficulties of traders have been made known to us.

We have suggested and been promised a council-produced flyer and publication in this newspaper of plans of the new orbital route directions. This we deemed necessary for all shoppers, commuters and visitors with updates for practicality and awareness.

Due to the current road works, problems for some traders are being experienced in varying degrees, with customers being lost. Hopefully, when the road workings are completed, in the not too distant future, this customer base will return.

The Chamber of Trade has a stronger voice than a single trader has and we are not afraid to use it when necessary. We invite businesses both large and small to join with us and work together in making Blackburn a better place for shopping, working and entertainment.

MR RON O'KEEFFE (jnr), President, Blackburn and District Chamber of Trade, Strawberry Bank, Blackburn.