Hyndburn seeks feedback on Accrington Market Chambers revamp
The borough council is set to acquire the building with a view to converting it into a cultural and heritage venue as part of a Town Centre Investment Plan.
Proposals for the vacant Market Chambers would see its repair and refurbishment to create a cultural, arts, and heritage space in Accrington town centre.
Hyndburn Council announced its plans to acquire Accrington’s Market and Burton Chambers in March. Property services consultant CBRE has led the discussions regarding Hyndburn Council’s acquisition of the buildings.
Cllr Mohammed Younis, portfolio holder for levelling up, said: “The building is secured for a culture and heritage venue, but what has not yet been determined is what activities or provision will be inside the building.
“We need the thoughts and input from our local community to make sure what is created is a space they will use and enjoy.”
Cllr Marlene Haworth, Leader of Hyndburn Council, added: “Hyndburn has so much rich heritage embedded throughout the borough and we want to really uplift this proud background for all to enjoy.
“By creating a dedicated space to explore these historical and cultural narratives, we can better celebrate our borough whilst generating footfall into the area that supports the growth of the local economy.”
The consultation on the plans for the transformation of Market Chambers to create an arts hub will run until 12 June and can be found at HyndburnHeritageSurvey.
The plans form part of Hyndburn Council’s successful £20m Levelling Up Fund for Accrington Acre, a three-part project.
The wider project also includes the redevelopment of the town’s Burton Chambers and Market Hall to deliver a co-working space and food and drink venue, respectively.
A further £1.5m is being provided by Lancashire County Council in match-funding, as well as £2m allocated by Hyndburn Council itself.
With what support for the three established businesses there? We can’t get public demand for shops in the centre so of what use & benefit is a heritage centre? Develop with support to bring in more shops than spending money on a lame duck. Let’s have a change of planners with real ideas for regeneration of Accrington
By Alan Clitheroe
Closing the market hall for 18 months and spending £485,000 from the council reserves on a consultancy firm. Shows how this council is out of touch with the constituents. The two questions you need to ask do we need a food hall? And can the town survive closing the market hall for 18 months? The answer is no to both questions but the council won’t ask those two questions
By Anonymous