Two new taxi ranks have been created in a bid to boost the night-time economy of Lytham.

The ranks, on Henry Street and Park Street, have been put in place for use by taxis after 6pm when shops have closed and bars and restaurants begin to open.

It is hoped that the central position of the ranks will encourage more people to head into the town to enjoy a quiet drink with friends.

Councillor Eaves, chairperson of the licensing panel, said: “We are striving to help the economy as much as possible and we hope enabling people to get into town in an evening will be an added boost.

“At the moment many people will avoid the drive into town as they may have to walk a short way to their favourite bars or restaurants.

“By providing taxis we hope they will be encouraged to head into town with friends knowing they can easily get to and from a venue.

“The ranks will be a boost for the town centre bars and restaurants as more people are able to make the journey to them and also to taxi drivers who will be able to park up and wait for people to make the return home at the end of the night.

“There will also be a benefit to road safety and in the reduction of antisocial behaviour as partygoers will no longer have to walk through the town to get home or to find a taxi.”

Fylde council is stressing that the ranks will only be in affect from 6pm when local shops have closed so that parking for the day time economy is not affected.

They are also reminding drivers that parking on the ranks in the evenings will not be allowed although there will be a grace period as people get used to the new markings.