HI-TECH bollards will rise out of the ground in a bid to stop illegal driving around Bolton's pedestrianised zone, town centre traders have been warned.

The plan to install automatic bollards at the entrances to Victoria Square was revealed at a meeting of Bolton Town Centre Partnership traders' committee.

Bolton town centre manager Maria Appleton told traders that Bolton Council is planning to install the bollards next year in a bid to stamp out persistent unauthorised driving across the square.

She said: "I know from personal experience that all kinds of vehicles that shouldn't be there drive on the pedestrian areas at all times of day."

The bollards, linked to a timer, will rise automatically out of the ground at 10am after service vehicles have been allowed to deliver to stores.

Drivers of emergency vehicles and other vehicles who have special permission to drive on the square will be given swipe cards which will allow them to lower the bollards to let them on and off.

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