Published March 4, 2021 at 12:01
A new fund to help Lancashire’s economic recovery following the impacts of Covid-19 has awarded £150,000 to the refurbishment of Rawtenstall Town Square.
Lancashire County Council has recognised the benefits of completing the Rawtenstall town square, which will enhance the new Bus Station environment and neighbouring multi-million pound scheme to refurbish the Old Town Hall.
The scheme being delivered by Rossendale Borough Council, will help to revitalise the town square, creating an outside meeting point, whilst importantly supporting the hospitality sector and visitor economy. It will transform a neglected piece of landscape into a unique town square, to offer a variety of amenity spaces including hard landscape areas for events, helping to stimulate further investment in the town.
Lancashire County Council has allocated £12.8million to the new Lancashire Economic Recovery and Growth Fund, which is targeted at tackling some of the economic impacts of Covid-19 and stimulating economic growth.
County Councillor Keith Iddon, Cabinet Member for Highways & Transport said:
“We are pleased to support this important public realm improvement scheme in one of the areas of the county hardest hit by the economic impact of Covid-19. The scheme is amongst the first to be approved for funding from the Lancashire Economic Recovery and Growth Fund, which we have launched to take urgent action to help the sectors and occupations in our county most exposed.
“The county council’s financial contribution will ensure this project is delivered on time, assisting Rawtenstall in its ambition to improve accessibility and increase footfall, and creating a more attractive environment for residents, businesses and visitors.
“This project shows how Lancashire has come together to plan a way forward to protect our economy, and help it grow in the future. By working together we can show what the county, our residents and our businesses have to offer.”
Council Leader Alyson Barnes from Rossendale Borough Council said:
“The Council has been working extremely hard with partners to ensure we develop a quality scheme, and we are pleased that Lancashire County Council has decided to lend their support with this match funding.
“Creating and revitalising areas such as the town square will play an important role in our business recovery plan as we navigate our way out of these difficult times and support our businesses.”
The scheme to enhance the square will complement the adjacent Spinning Point investment, undertaken in partnership with the county council and the Lancashire Enterprise Partnership. The county council’s grant of up to £150,000 will be matched against Rossendale Borough Council’s funding of £150,000.
A Concept Design is being produced and project delivery is expected to complete by July 2021.
The council has also recently approved £200,000 funding for Barnoldswick Town Centre to renew flagged public realm paving, widen pedestrian access and improve drainage systems. The Lancashire Economic Recovery and Growth Fund will be allocated to projects across the county council’s twelve district areas.