7:40pm Wednesday 8th July 2009
By Alex Willmott
DETAILS have been released about new plans to redevelop an “eyesore” shopping centre in Rossendale.
Developers Ashbourne Property will meet with council bosses today over its revised plans for Rawtenstall’s Valley Centre.
These will see fewer properties for housing and include community facilities.
Director Findlay Macalpine said: “When we took over the Valley Centre in December 2007, the planning application we inherited from the previous owner CNC, was not viable in the economic downturn.
“A large-scale property site would not benefit the good folk of Rawtenstall in the recession so my team of architects have been working on a new scheme.
“We will meet with the council to discuss our ideas and work alongside them in delivering something that will compliment the town and the Rossendale Valley.”
At present the post office occupies a shop in the dilapidated shopping centre along with clothing company Ethel Austin, who have announced they will move to new premises.
Coun Jason Gledhill, portfolio holder for leisure, said: “The meeting is welcome news and will hopefully move things forward together.
“A mixed use scheme with some public realm space is the way forward but I'm not aware of Ashbourne putting any real proposals to the council for how their land at the back could be utilised. Given the high profile and seriousness of the situation Tony Swain, the council leader, has taken the project on as leader.
“At the end of the day though the Valley Centre is owned by Ashbourne and it is up to them to sort out their property to a decent standard.
“If they cannot or will not do that, the council, as residents would expect, is considering what appropriate measures are open to it.”
Mr Macalpine added: “It is an exciting time for Rawtenstall.
"My team and I will deliver a viable project which can benefit the town.”
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