PLANS for the £3million-plus trans-formation of Clitheroe Castle have been unveiled.

Under plans revealed yesterday, the 800-year-old castle keep and museum will be turned into a 21st Century all-weather visitor attraction.

Following last week's announcement that the Heritage Lottery Fund will contribute £2million to the scheme, civic leaders in Clitheroe have pledged to make up the £700,000 shortfall.

As £250,000 has already been pledged by the North West Development Agency, Ribble Valley Council - which heads the scheme - said it was determined to come up with the £700,000 needed for match funding.

The £2million grant is dependent on the shortfall being reached in the next 12 months.

John Heap, community services director at the council, said: "We are determined to meet this total over the next 12 months, and while nobody would desire to see an increase in council tax I am sure councillors would certainly look at it if the need arose. This is not about us coming up with a bright new idea for the castle and the surrounding buildings, it is more a celebration of Clitheroe's history."

Chris Hughes, community services manager at the council, said: "We have been trying to get this product off the ground for the last 10 years. During that time we have come to the conclusion that the castle, the museum and its grounds are some of the most important assets in the Ribble Valley and that this project represented perhaps the last chance to make a difference."

The project will include a glass atrium built between the castle museum and the North West Sound Archive, and a new cafe and exhibition rooms built in the museum.

The council is now appointing a project manager to oversee the appointment of architects and the tendering process for construction.

Local businesses are being asked for their support.