CONSULTANTS are being called in by the council to draw up a masterplan to regenerate a ‘priority area’ of Accrington.

Hyndburn Council has agreed to take on the Manchester-based consultants Taylor Young to create an East Accrington Masterplan for the Peel and Barnfield ward.

Major changes are expected once the consultants have reviewed the area in conjunction with ward councillors and council officers.

Last year the ward was identified as a ‘priority area’ and made the next phase of Accrington’s Housing Market Renewal programme.

So far West Accrington has been the focus of regeneration with work being carried out in two stages as part of the Phoenix Project to revamp homes, shops, car parking and landscaped public spaces in Leyland Street, Blackburn Road, Barlow Street and Grimshaw Street.

Once the masterplan is complete, the council will approach Elevate for funds to carry out clearance, new builds, refurbishment and redevelopment. It is hoped the improved housing will enhance the quality of life for residents and boost the numbers who opt to live and work there.

At yesterday’s cabinet meeting in Scaitcliffe House, Ormerod Street, a timescale of summer for the masterplan and 2010-2011 for the funding bid was agreed.

Deputy leader Peter Clarke, portfolio holder for regeneration said: “It needs doing.

“Peel and Barnfield became a priority area last year and we sent consultation papers for companies to get in touch to create a masterplan.”