From left to right, Megan Eastwood project manager, Cllr Andy Macnae, Dennis Taylor, architect Vic Fletcher, Cllr Barbara Ashworth, Andy Pooler from Michael Pooler Associates, Mike McIntyre of Rosslee Construction, Paul Mann of Appleyard and Trew, John Crowley (representing owner of building
Published August 24, 2017 at 13:45
The refurbishment of one of Bacup’s most historic buildings has been completed.
Built in the 1930s, the Art Deco Real Building on St James Square has undergone a total revamp and its historic details have been restored.
The work which took around four months included the installation of new windows with bespoke steel frames, replacement of the roof and shop front, structural works to the cellar and stone repairs.
The project is part of the exciting £2m Townscape Heritage Initiative, a five-year long scheme that will see the restoration and refurbishment of town centre shop fronts and building facades.
It will also include vacant floor space being brought back into use, architectural features reinstated and structural work undertaken.
The scheme follows the successful application by Rossendale Borough Council to secure £1.5m from the Heritage Lottery Fund for the project.
Dennis Taylor who worked in the REAL building
To celebrate the completion 92 year old Dennis Taylor was invited to see the building, which was previously used as the offices for the North Western Electricity Board later Norweb.
The great grandfather of four worked at the electricity board based in the Bacup building for seven years from 1954. He said:
It’s been done to a very high standard and looks in exceptional condition. In its day it was a very important building for Bacup and acted as a community hub for people.
Councillor Councillor Andy MacNae, Executive Member for Regeneration said :
I think everyone will agree that the Real building now looks fantastic and is a wonderful addition to the scheme.
This was a key part of the Townscape Heritage Initiative which is achieving some great results in transforming Bacup town centre.