Bacup plans get seal of approval from residents and businesses

Hundreds of people are supportive of ambitious plans to transform Bacup.

The Council launched the consultation to get views of residents and businesses on the Bacup 2040 vision last month as part its bid to the Future High Street fund.

In August, Rosendale Council welcomed news that Bacup has been included in an expanded list of towns that have progressed in a bid to benefit from the fund.

And in September, the Council learnt its bid for £1.1m to help restore and repurpose some of the town’s historic buildings including the former Regal Cinema had been successful.

The consultation results will be discussed by councillors at the Full Council meeting on December 23.

Councillors are also set to agree match funding to support the redevelopment of Market Square and town centre regeneration subject to a further business case and future Council approval. A commitment to match funding is required to bolster the bid to future high streets fund improving its chances of success.

Councillor Andrew Walmsley, Portfolio Holder for Resources, said:

“As the consultation shows, the vision and masterplan has plenty of support from residents and businesses.

We have a once in a lifetime opportunity to transform the town centre and build on the great work that has already been delivered.

“We have been quite successful in our bids so far but to get it over the line we need everyone to get behind the plans to show how important it is for Bacup and the borough. The competition is really tough for Future High Streets but with everyone behind it we have a better chance.

“But Bacup is well and truly on the up. Our job is to continue to bring in funding and investment to continue the journey the town is on.”