A NEW business hub has been unveiled at a former town hall building after a £500,000 renovation.

The historic Great Harwood Town Hall had lain empty for years in a near-derelict state.

But now, after being taken over by Globe Enterprises, the site, to be known as 'The Chambers', is to be used to house start-up businesses.

The move has been hailed as a 'fantastic boost' to the local economy, and will provide office space starting at £39 per week.

Dennis Mendoros, chairman of Regenerate Pennine Lancashire, said: “It is a fantastic refurbishment and modernisation of this Victorian building.

“The Chambers will provide perfect premises for 15 new businesses and their staff.

“The business advice on offer will provide them with the initial support they need to grow and be successful, revitalising the centre and increasing local employment opport-unities in Great Harwood.”

Globe Enterprises Limited is a joint partnership between Barnfield Construction, Hyndburn Council and local businessman Stuart Nevison.

The work on the building, which was built in 1900, was paid for with regeneration cash secured through Regenerate.

Hyndburn Enterprise Trust will negotiate the lettings and has a base onsite in order to manage the building.

The organisation will offer businesses packages including business advice, secretarial services and book-keeping.

The centre offers flexible rental agreements, allowing for businesses to set up or move quickly without restrictive contracts.

The Chambers held an open day at the weekend when potential businesses and community groups had a look around.