COUNCILLORS said they have been 'encouraged' by plans for potential transport developments in the north.

Transport for the North chief executive David Brown recently gave a presentation to Hyndburn Council about plans for growth across the region.

Recommended potential developments include direct train link from East Lancashire to Manchester Airport, reinstalling the Skipton to Colne rail link and the extension of the M65 and M66.

Cllr Noordad Aziz, who has previously campaigned for both motorway and rail expansions, is encouraged by the plans.

He said: "The above schemes can drive economic growth in East Lancashire communities some of which are the most deprived communities in the whole country.

"We need to work cross party, cross borough in East Lancashire to develop a united voice that presents a vision for infrastructure.This will change the outlook and fortunes of our whole region."