AMBITIOUS plans to boost culture in Chorley were expected to be approved by councillors at a meeting last night (Tuesday).

The five-year cultural strategy entitled 'Creative Connections' will be officially launched as part of a cultural celebration at the end of this month.

And a 'cultural consortium' made up of members of the Citizens Panel and representatives from cultural agencies will be formed this spring to monitor the progress of the plans.

The strategy, discussed at last night's executive cabinet meeting of Chorley Borough Council, covers a wide range of services which it is hoped can be provided for residents before 2008.

These include creating 'Community Champions' to help access lottery funding, setting up displays and exhibitions celebrating the life of Chorley-based astronomer Jeremiah Horrocks, providing a professional local radio station, building a town centre 'piazza' for performers and an annual midsummer festival of 'local distinctiveness.'

Councillor Cath Hoyle, executive member for culture, sport and community development, said: "There are major social, health, economic and environmental benefits in developing opportunities for and participation in cultural activities.

"Culture is an integral element in improving the quality of life for the borough's communities and making Chorley a better place to live, work and visit.

"I welcome this Cultural Strategy as a blue print for the whole borough over the next five years and thank all the sports, arts, heritage, environmental, community and faith groups that have consulted with us, along with our neighbouring authorities, partners and agencies."

The strategy is not designed to commit the council to spending, but explores projects that can be funded from a sources.

The public was consulted through a range of methods, including the 'Face of Culture' web-poll, a short film entitled 'Alien Culture' and consulting parish councils.

Residents can to get involved and share their ideas through the website at www.chorley.gov.uk or by phoning the cultural development team on 01257 515320.