Market hall and arcade lead the race for ‘levelling up’ cash
THE Victorian Arcade and Accrington Market Hall have emerged as early front runners for consideration for a bid for government cash.
Hyndburn’s councillors have approved The Accrington Town Centre Investment Plan (TCIP), setting out their vision for the town’s future.
The strategic plan sets out potential possible investments of around £70m, and annual income of £9.6m for the local economy, as we reported last week.
It has received crossparty backing, and was approved at last week’s Hyndburn full council meeting.
The public are now invited to have their say on the details in the TCIP and let the council know what they should prioritise for investment over the coming years.
The plan includes a variety of projects and initiatives that will improve environmental quality in the town and encourage sustainable growth for the local economy.
Eighteen potential interventions and ideas for a thriving town centre, include a high-end renovation of the Victorian Arcade, an ‘Eastgate boulevard’, and a waterpark at Platt’s Lodge.
Up to three of these will go forward under the first stage of the bid, worth up to £22m.
Early survey data snapshots suggest a renovation or transformation of the Victorian Arcade is the top priority for residents, backed by 93 per cent of respondents. Accrington Market Hall investment and development has also been heavily supported.
Council leader Coun Miles Parkinson said: “This plan will be used to generate future investments, bid for funding and steer Hyndburn Borough Council over the coming years.
“It is estimated to take shape over the next 10–15 years and, when complete, will transform our local economy through supporting new jobs, increasing footfall and helping Hyndburn be a place people aspire to live, work and enjoy.”
Coun Marlene
Haworth, leader of the Conservative opposition, said: “Accrington, alongside the rest of Hyndburn, needs transformation and investment - especially after we have suffered so largely from the impacts of the pandemic.
“This plan looks to the future and shows what we can become.
“It was wonderful to read the TCIP and the list of projects, which give such a clear vision and focus for the future, I fully support it and I am sure the people of Hyndburn will too.
“Accrington is at the heart of our borough.
“Through investment and strategic planning here we can expand these opportunities and use it as a model for other townships in Hyndburn.”
Full details of the survey and plan can be found at www. hyndburnbc.gov.uk/tcip/