New vision for Haslingden town centre is published

Rossendale Council hopes the vision in the Haslingden 2040 masterplan will provide millions of pounds to pay for a comprehensive redevelopment of its main shopping and leisure area.

It will be submitted to the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

The Haslingden Strategic Board described the draft scheme, prepared with input from the towns residents and businesses, as ‘bold and exciting’.

It includes plans to create new event spaces, shared green areas and better pedestrian links.

The proposals have been backed by MP Graham Jones whose constituency includes Haslingden.

The plan says: “In 2040, Haslingden Town Centre will unlock its potential to be known as a ‘hidden gem’ for nature and countryside explorers.

“The town centre will be a hub of community activity and heritage renaissance which captures the fusion of cultural and historical experiences it has to offer. With a refreshing stream of investment, Haslingden will be a town for everyone.”

The proposals include: the extended paving and pedestrianisation of Upper Deardengate; the creation of new event spaces for community activities such as artisan’s markets; a new nature pocket park with seating around a statue of William Cockerill; an enhanced public realm on Pleasant Street and around the graveyard; and the refurbishment of the existing Big Lamp and a creation of a new one.

It also offers grants to shopkeepers for property refurbishments; market improvements; architectural lighting and alleyway improvements; and community micro-grants.

Rossendale Council’s deputy leader Cllr Jackie Oakes said: “The town has so much potential so our job is to make sure we bring in the funding to unlock that potential. We have worked to gather views on what Haslingden town centre should look like in the future.”

Mr Jones said: “Hopefully this will be a blueprint to reinvigorate the town.”

Business leader Leigh Andrews,said: “This is exactly what Haslingden needs: a clear plan to improve the town.”