A DEADLINE for views on major changes to Sale Moor and Hale has been extended.

Traders representatives have voiced concerns about a consultation for the villages, as the deadline for feedback is extended to March 10.

The Federation for Small Business (FSB) is among those expressing concern with the council exercise.

Anne Lambelin, the FSB's area leader, said: "There are a lot of businesses in both areas rightly concerned the proposals being tabled will affect trade and their future viability.

"Many businesses feel their livelihoods are at stake, so whatever decisions are made after the local elections, it can’t simply be a rubberstamping exercise where valid concerns are ignored, as was the case with Brown Street car park development in Hale.

"In Sale Moor, businesses are frantic as the plans there sees most of the on-street car parking ripped out to make way for a cycle lane. This is something that needs to be addressed. Local town centres need readily accessible, convenient parking options to survive."

Blueprints for the villages, drawn up with developers Nexus, pledge extra and cheaper parking, improved seating and lighting and more independent shops.

Cllr James Wright, the council's regeneration cabinet member, said: "I want the local community to be fully involved in the Place Plans and extending the consultation period will provide more opportunity for this."

The plans can viewed on the Trafford Citizen Space page online and hard copies are in libraries.