£1m funding boost for Accrington town centre plans
Exciting proposals to transform Accrington town centre take a step forward.
Lancashire County Council has boosted Hyndburn Borough Council's ambitious plans to redevelop the town centre by pledging £1m towards the transformation of the Market Hall.
The cash pledge will give added weight to a multi-million pound bid being made to the government's Levelling Up Fund which seeks to turn these bold plans into reality.
If successful, the overall project will transform the Market Hall and other parts of the town centre. This will create jobs and boost the local economy by establishing Accrington as a thriving and modern market town.
County Councillor Aidy Riggott, Cabinet member for economic development and growth, said: "These are really exciting proposals that will improve Accrington Market Hall and help to increase footfall, as part of wider plans for the town centre. We're proud to be working with Hyndburn Council to deliver this plan which will show what levelling up looks like in action."
The funding from Lancashire County Council would come from its Levelling Up Investment Fund, which aims to speed up the development of existing and emerging major schemes. This supports the county council's priorities including boosting jobs and skills, improving transport, and protecting our environment.
Councillor Peter Britcliffe, Portfolio Holder for Levelling up and Regeneration at Hyndburn Council, said: “I am delighted to hear of the additional £1 million funding Lancashire County Council are adding to Hyndburn’s Levelling Up Fund Bid. I know I speak on behalf of residents when I say this is much needed and very welcome. This pledge for funding is a brilliant example of how county and district councils can work together for the benefit of the people.
“The plans for Accrington Town Centre are incredibly exciting and, if our Levelling Up bid is successful, we would see major transformation and regeneration - starting with Accrington Market and the Town Square. This is just the first step in raising pride in our largest town, future plans ensure every town in our borough will receive investment and recognition, making Hyndburn a place people want to visit, live, work and enjoy.”
The plans for the Market Hall are part of Hyndburn Borough Council's Accrington Town Centre Investment Plan.
The county council have also been working closely with Hyndburn on further proposals in the town centre, as part of the 'Accrington Acre' programme, through the county council's Lancashire Economic Recovery and Growth Programme.
Notes to editors
Note to editors:
Lancashire County Council has made the in-principle agreement with Hyndburn Council to provide the £1m funding. The funding is subject to a business case which Hyndburn is producing. The overall regeneration project for the town centre is worth £23m.
Find out more about the county council's Levelling Up investment Fund: Cabinet agrees £5m local 'Levelling Up' fund to boost growth (lancashire.gov.uk)