BLACKPOOL'S once-ailing town centre is witnessing its most dramatic changes for years says the resort's heritage watchdog group.

Blackpool Civic Trust believes the improvements are a major step towards bringing style and elegance to the town.

But chairman Barry Shaw opposed any attempt to demolish the listed Post Office in Abingdon Street or the market next door.

In his report to the group's annual meeting at the Town Hall, he said: "Gone are the days of graffiti on empty shops, boarded-up windows and flyposting.

"Art and culture are coming to the fore, especially at the Grundy gallery. The council is trying desperately to bring style, class and elegance to the town which hitherto has been sadly lacking.

"Not for a long time has the face of the town centre undergone such major changes and the council is to be congratulated. These schemes are surely paving the way for a brighter future."

He welcomed LeisureParc's entry on to the tourist scene in the resort and the company's proposed feasibility study into a new conference centre on the old Central Station site.

"There is speculation that the Winter Gardens complex could be transformed into a shopping emporium and retail centre, although the future of the Opera House has been assured," he said.

"Mr Shaw added plans for new developments, such as a department store, in the town centre would be welcome but not at the cost of losing buildings like the Post Office and historic market.

"It is pure speculation at the moment but I am sure other suitable sites could be found for these stores."

Meanwhile, the trust has set a target of 200 members by the Year 2000.

President Tony Battersby paid tribute to Mr Shaw for helping revive the group which had faced closure several years ago.

Mr Battersby presented Mr Shaw with a chairman's ribbon and medallion engraved with his name and those of three of his predecessors, Geoffrey Thompson, Martin Gunson and the late John Green.

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