Dramatic new images have been revealed of how Accrington's town square may look as a main contractor has been appointed to deliver the initial stages of its £70 million transformation.
National contractor Morgan Sindall Construction has been chosen by Hyndburn Council to mastermind the early work on the scheme.
This represents a significant milestone in the delivery of the January 2022 £70m Accrington Town Centre Investment Plan.
The project is financed by £20m of government cash from its Levelling Up fund and a further £3m from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and Lancashire County Council, with further investment forecast from the council and private investors.
The scheme – designed by AEW Architects - encompasses three iconic heritage sites: the Market Hall, Market Chambers, and Burtons Chambers.
These historic buildings are set to undergo a comprehensive programme of improvements and repurposing, breathing new life into their spaces.
Hyndburn Council has revealed new architect's images of how the buildings may look, including a dramatic cutaway of the proposals for the Grade II heritage-listed Victorian Market Hall.
It will be refurbished and transformed into a vibrant food and drink destination.
Burtons Chambers will be restored to become a modern co-working space for individuals and businesses, with events space.
Market Chambers will be refurbished and repaired, aiming to enable its transformation into a cultural, arts and heritage venue for the future.
The investment plan underscores the importance of Accrington Town Square as a hub for the Lancashire region, and focal point of cultural and historical significance.
The Accrington Town Square Scheme is being accelerated through SCAPE, one of the UK’s leading procurement specialists.
Morgan Sindall will now commence the enabling works to ready the site for the major refurbishment works due to begin next year.
Hyndburn Council leader Cllr Marlene Haworth said: "This is excellent news; it is a real milestone for the scheme.
"The new pictures are concept images of how we want the new buildings to look. They are not set in stone.
"We will be consulting with businesses and stakeholders on the final designs."
Simon Arnott, managing director for Morgan Sindall’s North-West region, said: "Hyndburn Borough Council has developed an inspiring vision for the future of Accrington, built around a town square that will have significant social and economic benefits for the local community.
"It will be a privilege for our team to help deliver this catalyst for growth and community engagement.”
Mark Robinson, SCAPE Group chief executive, added: “This is a fantastic project, which will make use of a strong local supply chain to revitalise and reimagine some of the most historic sites in the North-West.
"These new facilities are going to boost the local and regional economy, create new jobs and ensure a positive, sustainable legacy is created in Accrington that will be felt for years to come.”
Cllr Munsif Dad, leader of Hyndburn Council's Labour opposition group, said: "This is as step forward but it is vital the council consults properly with traders, businesses, other political groups on the council and stakeholders on the future of this project."
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