A "MASTERPLAN" setting out the future for Nelson town centre over the next 10 years is set to be unveiled today.

The blueprint for the town's future - details of which were revealed by the Telegraph earlier this month - has come about after months of consultations with local businesses, residents and visitors.

Pendle Council is behind the project which is aimed at transforming the town centre, making it more attractive as a place to live, work and visit.

The key proposal in the town centre strategy is to allow cars back through Nelson town centre, which is currently pedestrianised.

Included in the launch will be provisional markings to give an impression of where the road would run.

A new £5million office and leisure development being built opposite the town hall in Market Street is one of the projects in the masterplan which already has funding in place. The new centre will house more than 300 workers, as well as shops and a restaurant.

Civic leaders hope the development will hail the town centre's rebirth and kick start an evening economy. Also in the masterplan is the project to provide a new bus and rail interchange. Construction is expected to start next year.

Local people will be able to see the blueprint for Nelson town centre's future at the launch marquee in Market Street and will have the chance to view the plan and pick up a newsletter highlighting the proposals.

Coun Allan Buck said: "The masterplan includes some exciting and challenging projects to be delivered over the next few years that will really improve Nelson town centre.

"It will help to change and develop the town in a positive way." Pendle's regeneration boss Brian Cookson added: "This is the first important step to fulfil a vision for Nelson and it has involved so many people who care about the town's future."