Councillors agree Haslingden match funding

Rossendale Council has agreed to ring fence £160,000 to support Haslingden town centre as a fresh bid for funding is prepared.

Working with the recently re-established Haslingden Taskforce, the Council is preparing a bid for Heritage Funding.

A bid was made last year but while unsuccessful, the Council received many positive comments and has been encouraged to submit a further one this year.

The Council’s recently adopted economic development strategy identifies the borough’s town centres as the number one priority for focus.

Councillor Alyson Barnes, leader of the Council, said:

“We all have heard the stories of how difficult and tough it is for the high street at the moment. But as we can see from what is happening in Rawtenstall, with a bit of imagination, vision and partnership working, town centres can buck that national trend. What we need is more funding so we are always interested in any pot of money we can bid for.

“Hopefully our bid for Heritage funding for Haslingden will be successful. We have already spoken to residents and businesses to create a vision for the town centre but we need money to make it into reality. I hope everyone in the town gets behind our bid as it is much needed. Improving Haslingden is a top priority for this Council and I am personally committed to working with everyone to achieve a better Haslingden. Our search to secure further investment will be ceaseless.”