Accrington masterplan sets out vision for resi-led future
Jon Matthews Architects and Planit have been appointed to create an overarching development plan aimed at attracting new residents, improving connectivity, and encouraging economic growth.
Hyndburn Council and Lancashire County Council are seeking the views of Accrington residents and stakeholders on the plans, which aim to reduce the amount of retail space in the town centre and deliver new homes.
Features of the masterplan, billed as a 10-year regeneration roadmap, include:
- A revamped public square around the market
- A park around the viaduct
- Residential development around Grange Lane, St James Street, and off Burnley Road
- A mixed-use scheme off Crown Street close to the train station
There is also a focus on improving highways in the town, with plans to remodel various junctions and limit car use in the town centre.
Cllr Aidy Riggott, cabinet member for economic development and growth at Lancashire County Council, said: “The proposals aim to enhance the lives of Accrington’s residents and make the town centre a more attractive and interesting place to visit.
“The masterplan includes initiatives to promote active travel and health for the local community by making it easier to walk or cycle into town. Lancashire County Council has contributed financially and our team is working on traffic modelling for the proposed Viaduct Park.”
Hyndburn Council has secured £70m to support the regeneration of the town from local and central government.
That cash will go towards developing a trio of schemes: the conversion of Market Chambers into a cultural venue, the redevelopment of Burton Chambers into coworking space, and the transformation of Market Hall into a food and drink venue.
When we moved here it was a lovely town.you the council have destroyed it and squandered money
By Mr slater
It’s too late to save Accrington now, it should have been saved long before it got to the state its in now.
By Anonymous
Make sure that people with mobility requirements are taken into account as these people need to be able to drive and park to and in all areas of the town centre
By James littlefair
Only hope for Accrington is for hyndburn to merge with the rest of Pennine Lancashire, which might happen if we get the much needed local government reorganisation of Lancashire .
By George
@December 09, 2024 at 1:55 pm
By George
What makes you think that this would be any better for Accrington?
No, the best hope is for Accrington to establish a parish council and drawing down powers, irrespective of whether Hyndburn goes or not.
By Rye