AN artist impression of what Bacup town centre could look like after its £2million restoration has been released by Rossendale Council.

The Bacup Townscape Heritage Initiative, part of the Rossendale Together Barnfield Partnership scheme, is investing £2m to restore the town’s historic character, as part of the Rawtenstall Masterplan.

Proposals have been made to narrow the main St James Street in Bacup, removing a fountain and roundabout to create a square for events.

The image shows what the proposed public realm scheme for St James Square will look like from the view of a pedestrian.

Cllr Andy MacNae, chairman of the THI board, said: “The image shows how the proposals we have at the minute will look when implemented and I have to say it looks very exciting.

“Our vision is to make Bacup much friendlier for pedestrians and create a place where we can put on brilliant events which attract more people to the town.”

Plans to make further improvements to Bacup town centre were first unveiled as part of a multi-million pound initiative.

Major improvements to shop fronts have already taken place under the initiative financed by £1.5million from the National Lottery, £400,000 from Rossendale Council and £100,000 from Lancashire County Council.

Supporters and critics of the controversial £2million revitalisation scheme have been urged to attend a crunch meeting at the Corner Stone function room in the Pioneer Building, Bacup, on Tuesday, July 4 from 6pm to 8pm.

At the meeting, people will be able to speak to members of the project board and county council highways officers and engineers.

Cllr MacNae added: “Clearly, these proposals need to be right which is why it is vital people get involved in the debate and help shape the final proposals.”

Cllr Steen said: “The shop front improvements have been wonderful. However, I still have strong reservations about the plans for a ‘Square’ on St James Street near Boots.

“I don’t think there is enough space there and think any money should be spent on Irwell Terrace where we already hold events.

“I would urge everyone in Bacup, residents, businesses and shoppers - to attend the meeting and discuss these plans so we get them right. Once they are done they are done.”

The programme of works will take place on various buildings in Bacup until early 2018.