Demolition work on a former Barclays bank building is to begin on Monday, January 8.

The work will be the start of an exciting transformation of Bacup town centre, and as part of the development the Bacup Market area will undergo significant changes.

A new market hall with accompanying café and cycle hub earmarked for the Barclays Bank site will be a gateway into the new market. 

The demolition of the three-storey building in Market Street, which is owned by Rossendale Council, is expected to take around 10 weeks.

The first part of the project, to be carried out by AW Demolition Ltd, of Manchester, will involve erecting safety hoarding and scaffolding around the site.

Lancashire Telegraph: The former Barclays Bank in BacupThe former Barclays Bank in Bacup (Image: Viva PR)

While the footpath in front of the building will be closed the council is working with the bus company and Lancashire County Council to relocate the bus stop which is presently sited immediately in front of the building.

The bus stop will be relocated to the adjacent lamp post with no shelter.

No traffic routes will be affected by the work.

Work to demolish the former bank will take place between 8am and 6pm, Monday to Friday, with deliveries only permitted between 9.30am and 2.30pm, Monday to Friday. 

The development of Bacup Market is being funded by the Capital Regeneration Project supported by the Levelling Up Fund. 

A spokesperson for Rossendale Council said: “As part of this development, the Bacup Market Area will undergo significant changes, serving as a catalyst for increased investment in the town.

“During demolition the entire building will be encased on three sides with scaffolding as added protection, whilst the contractor works from a front elevation to gradually take down the building. 

“Work will be carried out Monday to Friday during normal working hours and market traders should not be impacted during the period of demolition.”

The Levelling Up Fund is a government initiative designed to invest in infrastructure that improves everyday life across the UK.

The fund supports projects under three categories: town centre and high street regeneration, local transport projects, or cultural and heritage assets.