TWO new restaurant ventures could spice up life for visitors to Rawtenstall – and revive the fortunes of two of the town’s best-known venues.

Plans have been unveiled for the former Madisons, at the corner of Burnley Road and Haslingden Old Road, to be converted into an Indian restaurant and takeaway called Maza Lahori Grill and Spice.

And the old Rhythm Station, which also made its name as Barbarellas, at the other end of town, has also been earmarked to be turned into an eaterie called The Fire Pit.

Traders have welcomed the developments.

David Gould, chairman of Rawtenstall Chamber of Commerce, said: “I understand that the new Indian restaurant at the former Madisons site is going to serve authentic Indian cuisine, which will be a real asset to the town.

“Many families looking for authentic Indian food have to travel out of town to get it, so to have it here in Rawtenstall will be fantastic.”

Lisa Costello, I Love Rossendale’s local co-ordinator, said: “It’s great news that two new businesses have chosen to come to the Valley.”

Several different owners have tried to make a success out of the former Madisons, ranging from former staff to Thomas O’Toole, one of the UK’s youngest landlords when he took over the bar at the age of 20.

Meanwhile in Haslingden the former Victorian Tea Rooms in Deardengate has new owners, after being on the market for nearly two years.

Known now as the Dearden Tea Rooms, Andrea Britland and Christopher Hood are seeking a licence for everything from poetry readings and murder-mystery nights to tea dances and other social gatherings.