PROPOSALS to revamp Chorley's markets are to be discussed when 27

recommendations are put forward to traders and the council.

Chorley Borough Council's customer overview and scrutiny panel have

developed the plans in a bid to improve the performance and vitality of

both the covered and Flat Iron markets.

Among the recommendations are moving the Flat Iron stalls to Market

Street and Fazackerley Street, the reduction of stall rents and the

holding of specialist markets similar to the pot fair held earlier in

the month.

Improved lighting facilities and a roof for the central aisle of the

covered market are other items that will come under scrutiny.

The council meeting on April 7 will be the second time many of the

proposals are to be discussed after they were put on ice in September

last year while an investigation was conducted into partnering or

outsourcing opportunities.One improvement that has been implemented is

better facilities for coaches visiting the markets.

Chorley Borough Council's property services manager Roger Handscombe

said: "I have approached the managing company responsible for

operational matters on Chorley Interchange and agreed provisions to

offer drop off and pick up points for coach operators."

It is hoped the move will attract more coach trips to the town and

shoppers will shop both at the markets and elsewhere in the town centre.