BOLTON town centre has diversity, heritage, good shopping and great buildings -- but the parking is a problem.

There are fears that the strict parking rules are driving people away and some traders are also calling for reduced car park charges.

But a council study has found that there are limited spaces in the town. Even if it responds and reduces charges or lets people park without the watchful eye of attendants, it only limits the number of spaces available, said the report.

Cllr Michael Kilcoyne, who is in charge of parking, said charging motorists acts as a form of rationing.

"If you did not have regulations all the parking spaces would be filled by workers and there would be none for shoppers.

"There is not a major town or city that does not charge for parking."

He is listening to the business community, but they all have different needs and it is hard to please everyone.

"Every business person wants everyone to be able to park outside their shop -- but not for too long. There is so much conflict of need for different traders."

Latest figures also show that Bolton is booming and earning a reputation as one of the North-west's most vibrant shopping centres.

More than eight million shoppers visited the town centre during 2001 and Crompton Place has seen a 20 per cent increase in trade.

Cllr Kilcoyne said these figures show around three million cars will have come to the town last year. With 30,000 penalty notices given, this would mean only one per cent of drivers have broken the rules.

"Well done and thank you to the 99 per cent of people who are helping to maintain traffic safety and a healthy business environment," he said.