TRADERS and council bosses are working together to tackle the problem of parking in Bolton town centre. At a special meeting of Bolton Retailers Committee, traders heard that planning and engineering officers were undertaking a major review of car parking. They are looking into the possibility of cutting the price of short-term parking to lure more shoppers into the town centre.

Also under consideration is the introduction of a park and ride scheme to ease congestion.

Both proposals could be introduced in time for Christmas.

Bolton Council's town centre manager Maria Appleton said the meeting, held at the town hall, was a success. She said it gave council officers the opportunity to detail the authority's car parking policies and traders the chance to voice their concerns.

Mrs Appleton said: "Generally the car parking policy does work. From Monday to Friday the provision is fine, however on Saturday's there is some congestion.

"Following last night's meeting we will be looking at better standards, signs and security for our car parks."

She said the council was committed to working with traders to help fight off competition from other shopping areas including the Dumplington development.

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