Conservative-run Pendle Council is developing its plans for Colne town centre, after it was awarded £6.5m from the Government’s Levelling up Fund.
A range of projects for Colne will be finished by 2024 and one proposal includes making better use of Colne Market Hall and the bus station behind it.
The proposal aims to modernise and build an attractive new retail site which would improve the shopping experience for the public and improve the look of Colne town centre. It will also create new affordable housing to encourage town centre living and increased footfall to support the High Street and it will develop new bus infrastructure to provide sustainable travel and improved connectivity.
Councillor Nadeem Ahmed, Leader of Pendle Council, said: “We’ve written to all Colne market traders to tell them of our exciting proposals for the area. Before any plans are finalised we will consult with local businesses and residents to get their views. This is a fantastic opportunity to work together to realise the town’s potential and boost our economy. Pendle was one of the areas hardest hit by the pandemic so this funding boost will help us to attract more visitors and shoppers to the area.”
The funding will also create a Heritage Quarter with investment in three theatres – Colne Muni, Pendle Hippodrome and the Little Theatre, making them fully accessible for people with disabilities.
The Heritage Quarter project will incorporate the historic Derby Arms pub which is currently empty and un-used, into the Pendle Hippodrome theatre.
It will also tackle the blight of longstanding empty and under-used sites and buildings in the Albert Road Conservation Area which need redevelopment to maximise their potential.
Councillor Ahmed added: “We do not expect that any development work will take place for at least 12 months. Once a plan has been agreed and approved by councillors, we’ll need to seek planning permission. We’ll ensure that business owners and local residents are kept informed of the proposals to revitalise and improve Colne town centre.”
