People living in East Lancashire are being urged to help reshape the future of their town centre.

Rossendale Council is offering an open invitation for residents to attend a drop-in session at which they will be able to outline what improvements they would like to see in Rawtenstall town centre as part of the Valley’s regeneration.

The regeneration of Rawtenstall town centre is part of a multi-million scheme to not only revitalise Rawtenstall but also the Valley’s other two main town centres – Haslingden and Bacup.

The former Barclays Bank building, which has stood derelict in Market Street, Bacup, for some time, is expected to be demolished early in the New Year.

The site will become a gateway to the new Bacup Market development.

Councillor Alyson Barnes, leader of Rossendale Borough Council, said: “There are so many exciting projects happening around the Valley to make the area a vibrant place to live, work and relax for people of all ages in future years. 

“For it to be successful it’s important that residents take part in the process so that what is provided is what they want.

"That is why we urge people to offer their opinions and visit the drop-in sessions.”

Ideas are being sought on:

  •  Town centre accessibility for pedestrians, cyclists and motorists
  •  Safety
  •  Events and marketing
  •  Use of public areas, eg seating, gardens, sites for animation, the arts etc
  •  Opportunities for development

The markets in all three towns are to be transformed. Designs and consultations are currently underway for the new-look Bacup and Rawtenstall markets.

The second phase of the dynamic £3 million Big Lamp Project in Haslingden will start in the New Year.

It is aimed at renovating shop fronts, pedestrian ways and activity areas on Higher Deardengate plus community activity, training activities and general regeneration across the town centre’s regeneration area.

Meanwhile, Lancashire County Council is working on a design proposal for the new Rawtenstall Gyratory system which will be consulted on in the New Year.

The drop-in session is on Wednesday, December 13, 1pm to 4pm, at Sophie’s Boutique in Bank Street.

In addition, people can email their opinions to economicdevelopment@rossendalebc.gov.uk