COUNCILLORS have approved a masterplan aiming to transform an East Lancashire town into a 'vibrant, bustling and proud' area.

At a full council meeting last night (January 13), Hyndburn councillors approved the Accrington Town Centre Investment Plan (TCIP), which gives a vision for the future of the town.

Town centre bosses say the TCIP sets out potential investments of around £70m.

Included in the now approved plan are 18 projects proposed for the centre of Accrington which could help to ‘generate up to £9.6million for the local economy each year, entice up to 820,000 visitors annually and support hundreds of new jobs’.

Cllr Miles Parkinson, the leader of Hyndburn Council said: "This plan will be used to generate future investments, bid for funding and steer Hyndburn Borough Council over the coming years.

"It is estimated to take shape over the next 10 – 15 years and, when complete, will transform our local economy through supporting new jobs, increasing footfall and helping Hyndburn be a place people aspire to live, work and enjoy."

The plan includes a variety of projects and initiatives that will improve environmental quality in the town and encourage sustainable growth for the local economy over the next 10-15 years.

Cllr Marlene Haworth, leader of the Conservative opposition, said: "Accrington, alongside the rest of Hyndburn, needs transformation and investment – especially after we have suffered so largely from the impacts of the pandemic. This plan looks to the future and shows what we can become.

"It was wonderful to read the TCIP and the list of projects, which give such a clear vision and focus for the future, I fully support it and I am sure the people of Hyndburn will too.

"Accrington is at the heart of our borough. Through investment and strategic planning here we can expand these opportunities and use it as a model for other townships in Hyndburn."

The public have been invited to have their say on the details in the plan and let Hyndburn Borough Council know what they should prioritise for investment over the coming years.

Full details of the survey and plan can be found HERE