A MAJOR new town centre nightspot will aid regeneration efforts in Rawtenstall, according to the bar’s supporters.

Work is ongoing to convert the sprawling former Domus store, in Bacup Road, into ‘Vogue Bar’, ahead of an anticipated opening on April 6.

And leisure bosses claim the venture will breathe new life into Rawtenstall – which is currently bidding to become a ‘Portas’ town and secure regeneration investment totalling £1million.

The old furniture store, which measures around 6,000 square feet and is only yards from the town’s bus station, has been empty for more than two years.

Sarah Boddy, of Vogue Bars said: “We picked the unit due to its size and location close to town centre taxi ranks and the bus station but away from residential areas.

“It’s going to be a late-night venue, primarily open Friday and Saturday nights from 7pm to 4am, with live music, bands and a DJ later on.”

It is understood that initially the company had looked at using the former Pelo fashion store, in Bank Street, before negotations were completed over Domus.

Property agents Hurstwood, which brokered the deal, are also attempting to secure tenants for another long-standing empty property next door, the former Heritage Arcade.

A Hurstwood spokesman said: “The deal is good news for Rawtenstall town centre which is currently bidding to become one of the government’s ‘Por-tas’ pilot towns.”