CAR parking charges are being reviewed as part of a strategy to tempt more people into Burnley town centre.

Members of Burnley Council feel that in the past, car parking prices have been too high and that this has put people off driving into the centre.

All that may be about to change and the council is considering various ways of encouraging people to drive into town.

Leader of the council Stuart Caddy told a meeting of the regeneration committee earlier in the year that parking could play a vital role in attracting business and visitors.

He called for a full review of Burnley centre charges adding: "We need to bring new business to the town centre -- already 7,000 people are employed in the centre, it is our biggest employer."

Burnley was recently placed 149th in a league of 1,100 town centres, but the new parking schemes could see that position rise next year. From now on the emphasis will be on providing short stay car parking spaces at a low cost.

Councillor Roger Frost, executive member for environment and transport said: "I am very much in favour of this car parking strategy which the borough council has needed to address for some time.

"It will assist all transport users in the town centre and will be beneficial for shoppers and businesses alike.

"The strategy has also considered the parking issues in Padiham and recommended that further studies be undertaken to determine parking demand and supply in the town's car parks."

The executive also discussed park and ride options and the possibility of a shuttle bus link between Burnley's rail and bus stations. These issues will be the subject of a further report.

All four political groups that make up Burnley Borough Council and trade unions will be consulted about the possibility of the Town Hall car park being made partly available for public use.