CONCERNS over access and parking were raised by residents at the first public viewing of plans which will transform Clitheroe Castle.

Ribble Valley Council held the special meeting at its council chambers and the public was invited to watch a presentation by Chris Hughes, the authority's community development manager.

Under the plans, the castle, which also includes a war memorial, museum and park in its grounds, will be revamped thanks to the £3.2million scheme, to be paid for largely by a Heritage Lottery Fund grant.

But the council is also providing cash and spearheading a campaign urging local businesses to help fund the scheme.

At last night's meeting the plans were greeted with enthusiasm by some, but audience members also claimed there were problems with the scheme, particularly with access, parking and the general upkeep of the grounds.

Mr Hughes, spearheading the project for the council, said: "If we don't get it right this time the chance will be gone.

"This is our last chance and if we do get it right it will be something amazing."

During the meeting, which about 30 people attended, it was revealed the scheme is likely to be complete by spring 2009 if the necessary planning permission is granted and the final nod is given for the lottery grant.

The plans would see a cafe created a covered walkway connecting the museum and the castle's North West sound archive, new exhibitions and an education suite.

But residents in the meeting also raised concerns over whether the scheme would pay for itself in the long term.

Council leaders attempted to reassure the audience that the scheme would secure the long-term future of the landmark castle, and would be backed by improvements in road signs and the upkeep of the site.

Afterwards, Brian Ascott, 43, of Clitheroe, said: "I think this is a good thing. It isn't without risk but you don't get anything in life without taking risks."

And Frank Watson, Ribble Valley Council market superintendent, said: "I can't wait to see this scheme get going. There are too many people prepared to talk it down but it wants talking up."

But Eric Higham, 77, of Clitheroe, said: "I have certain doubts in as much as the government has always insisted on access for the public, whatever state of health.

"It's difficult to get up to the castle. You can't park up there and it's this issue of access for the public that's the main problem."