SUPPORTERS and critics of a controversial £2million revitalisation scheme for a town centre are being urged to attend a crunch meeting next month.

It will discuss proposals to narrow the main St James Street in Bacup, removing a fountain and roundabout to create a square for events.

A key part of the Lottery-funded project is improving the central area for pedestrians.

The board in charge of the Bacup Townscape Heritage Initiative (THI) has outlined plans for this phase.

Cllr Andy MacNae, its chairman, will give details at a public meeting from 6pm and 8pm on July 4 from 6pm to 8pm at a venue to be confirmed.

He is urging people to attend and give their views before and final scheme is agreed.

His appeal has been backed by Greensclough Tory councillor Peter Steen who has strong reservations about the proposed 'public realm'.

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.

At the July 4 meeting, people will be able to speak to members of the project board and county council highways officers and engineers.

Cllr MacNae said: “The THI scheme is a very exciting project which will help cement Bacup’s reputation as a historic market town and as an excellent place to shop and visit.

“We are already seeing the benefit with shop fronts refurbished and restored to their former glory.

“The 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.

“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 the are done they are done."