AN HISTORIC square, described as "an oasis of tranquillity," has won a lottery grant of £105,000.

The lottery cash, plus £60,000 from Rossendale Council, will restore Whitworth Square and its churchyard which dates back to the 16th century.

The square, tucked away behind the main road through Whitworth, contains ancient stocks, several rare 17th century properties and the tomb of the notorious Whitworth Taylor Doctors, 18th century medical pioneers, whose patients included the Archbishop of Canterbury and Princess Elizabeth, eldest daughter of George III.

The square was the first part of Rossendale to be designated a conservation area in 1974.

The new three-year plan is aimed at repairing and restoring some of its ancient buildings, including eight which are listed.

The work has the backing of the square's residents, some of whom may qualify for grants to repair their properties.

But a report to Rossendale Council says residents want the money to be spent on the public parts of the square, not on repairing their own properties.

Its says that grant assistance should be "well down the agenda."

Their priorities are repairs to the tombs, paths and steps in the yard of St Bartholomew's Church, the restoration of communal spaces and repairs to Calf Hey Lane, which leads from the square to the moors.

A report to the council describes Whitworth Square as "a little oasis" with a sense of history.

The first chapel at the site was built in 1529 with the present church erected in 1847.

The report adds that none of the square's listed buildings is at risk and most property is in decent condition.

But some of the oldest property needs structural repairs such as reroofing and stabilising of walls.

Conservationists are also concerned at "non-traditional" repairs such as PVC door and window frames and poor quality repointing.

Councillors were being asked this week to approve a list of local builders who would be invited to tender for the work.

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