WORK is continuing apace on £8.3m plans to overhaul an East Lancs market and surrounding streets.

Demolition work on the former Barclays Bank site, in Market Street, Bacup, is nearing completion.

The razing of the building, which closed to customers in 2015, is a key plank of plans for the proposed Temple Court two-storey market.

Last month designs for the project, backed by government levelling-up funding, were approved by Rossendale Council.

Blueprints for the ventue outline a two-storey market hall offering local produce, crafts, food and drink on the ground floor and a cycle hub and makers’ spaces on an upper floor.

Work on the market initiative is expected to be completed by spring 2026.

Pop-up stalls, specialist markets and live entertainment are pledged for when the market relaunches.

The outdoor market will still house traditional stalls selling fresh food, crafts and household wares.

Part of the overall scheme will see Union Street, next to the market, made one way, with widened footpaths.

Council chiefs say they are now seeking an experienced managing operator to establish Temple Court as a destination for visitors and bring the vision to life and will be holding an event for interested parties in the coming months.