Hyndburn Borough Council is pressing ahead with plans to transform Accrington town square into ‘a hub for shopping, food, events and culture’, following a successful bid to the Levelling Up Fund.
A 12-month regeneration programme will see Accrington’s Grade II listed Victorian Market Hall refurbished and transformed into a food and drink destination designed to entice visitors from across the borough. In addition, two nearby buildings are being acquired and refurbished to create a cultural, arts and heritage venue, and a co-working space for businesses and events respectively.
During the works, the market’s many independent businesses are being supported to continue trading through the installation of 19 specially designed pop up shops that have been installed on the square. Supplied by us, the bespoke branded kiosks can be used year-round and will ensure continuity of service during the renovations.
Cllr Miles Parkinson OBE, Leader of Hyndburn Borough Council, commented: “The Levelling Up Fund will allow us to transform Town Square into a hub for shopping, food, events and culture. Over the next few years, residents will see the funding continuing to work hard, helping create a sustainable and exciting town for generations to come.”
He continued: “Local residents and independent traders have always been at the heart of our plans, and we’re delighted to have found the perfect solution for maintaining access to the many wonderful eateries and shops during the works, with the installation of the pop up shop market. Visitors will find all their favourites and more.”
Nick Daffern, our MD, commented: “It has been our pleasure to support the council with this project and the feedback from local traders is just fantastic. After such a challenging period for retailers in recent years, taking all steps possible to help drive footfall to the town centre and build a vibrant community environment, will be most welcome.”
Hyndburn’s Levelling Up Fund bid totals £20m. With £3.5 million of match funding from Hyndburn Borough Council and Lancashire County Council, plus the recent UK Shared Prosperity Fund bid success. This takes the total funding secured for Hyndburn to over £26 million since December 2022. A further £50 million has also been awarded to Lancashire County Council, of which £18 million is expected for Hyndburn.
The three projects in Hyndburn’s Levelling Up Fund Bid are expected to be complete by March 2025. For more information, please visit www.hyndburnbc.gov.uk/ and www.rapidretail.co.uk
