SHOPPERS are looking forward to a new look market after improvement works began on the entrance to the centre.

Builders started work on Darwen Market last week as part of a council project to improve the historic hall.

Bosses at Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council hope that new automatic entrance doors, flooring and improved lighting will make the main entrance easier to use.

The new automatic doors will replace the former push and pull glass ones and will have the latest technology to work them. They will be made of traditional hardwood construction in a bid to maintain the traditional appearance of the hall. The heavy original wrought iron gates are also being repainted but will remain unaffected by the new doors.

Customers are being asked to use any of the five other entrances into the shopping centre until the works are complete on Friday.

Councillor Ashley Whalley, executive member for regeneration, said: "People with prams, wheelchairs or just shopping bags will all find it easier to use the market hall."