THIS is how Chorley's new state-of-the-art bus station should look.

The exciting new Interchange is proposed on a site between Woolworths and the train station, currently a car park.

It will also include a cafe, travel and tourist information office, shopmobility facilities, newsagent and toilets.

Planning chiefs say the development will give the town centre a real boost. For passengers there will be:

a welcoming waiting area for people catching taxis.

CCTV security -- and staff there until the last bus.

drop off areas for passengers arriving by car.

electronic bus and train departure displays on both stations.

Councillor Danny Gee, the council's executive member for technical services, said: "Chorley town centre will benefit from this kind of development.

"It should encourage bus use and provide a comfortable and efficient facility.

"This is our chance to set a new standard for public transport facilities and lead the way for other towns across Lancashire."

The Interchange is a partnership between the borough and county councils and architects Strzala Associates.

County councillor Nora Ward, cabinet member for highways and transportation, said: "People are demanding more from public transport these days. The services and facilities we provide must meet their expectations and prove that public transport is a viable alternative to the car."

Roman Strzala, of Strzala Associates, said: "We are delighted to be involved with such a prestigious project as this.

"We have tried to make the county and borough councils' vision of a modern and efficient interchange a reality."

Illustrations of the proposals are currently on display at the council's Gillibrand Street offices, Chorley.

Alan Croston, the council's head of planning services, said: "We have received advance notice of the plans and we are displaying these. There will be a formal planning application which will be made public in the usual way before the matter goes before the appropriate committees later this year.