TRADERS and residents in Darwen are being asked for their opinions after the blueprint for the town's future was unveiled.

The multi-million-pound strategy, developed by Darwen Town Centre Partnership during the last year, has now been put out to public consultation and goes on display when Darwen Town Centre Forum meets next Wednesday.

It identifies issues and opportunities for the improvement of the town centre including more community involvement, and is aimed at bringing further investment into the town.

Proposals include introducing an accreditation scheme for landlords; enhancing the appearance of Market Square; promoting Darwen Tower to increase tourism; assessing recent job losses and supporting employment; developing Darwen Markets; improving Darwen Railway Station; improving communication and the involvement of local people; and reducing traffic through the town centre, particularly along the A666.

Coun Andy Kay, chairman of Darwen Town Centre Partnership, called it an "exciting and positive agenda". He said: "It will help the partnership to access funds for the new projects, attract new investment, business and visitors and to fully realise the potential for Darwen town centre's future.

"Darwen Town Centre is about to experience significant change and investment."

The strategy has been developed based on the concept of the Six Towns of Darwen - A Living Town, A Working Town, A Thriving Market Town, An Historic Town, A Town Set In The Countryside and An Inclusive Town.

Leaflets explaining the strategy are available to residents at the town hall and library, as well as on the council website on www.blackburnworld.com.

You can express your opinion by filling in a questionnaire on the back of the leaflet and returning it to Adam Scott, Director of Regeneration c/o Blackburn Tourist Information Centre, FREEPOST, NWW 8125, Blackburn, BB1 5BR by December 31.