Major Rawtenstall improvement schemes to get underway

A major programme of improvements to Rawtenstall town centre is set to get underway as part of the Levelling Up East Lancashire programme.

The Bank Street scheme represents a significant investment in the town and will deliver improvements to Bank Street and surrounding areas, helping to create a safer, more attractive and accessible environment for residents, businesses and visitors.

The programme has been shaped by extensive consultation with local communities and stakeholders, with changes made to the Bank Street proposals following feedback received from the public during their development.

Preparatory work has started this week to establish the site's construction compound on Kay Street Car Park, which will be closed for the duration of the works. While this work will be visible on site, it is expected to have minimal impact on residents, businesses and visitors. Main construction activity is expected to get underway from 12 October, with further details being shared as the programme develops.

Preparatory works are also starting at Hall Carr, where improvements across the estate will help make it easier and safer for people to travel between homes, jobs, shops and services. Main construction activity there is expected to get underway from 5 October.

Work will temporarily be suspended at both Bank Street and Hall Carr over the Christmas period. This will help reduce disruption during what we know is a busy and important time for local businesses, particularly those in Rawtenstall town centre.

County Councillor Warren Goldsworthy, cabinet member for Highways and Transport at Lancashire County Council, said: "The Bank Street and Hall Carr schemes represent a major investment in Rawtenstall and form part of a wider £55 million programme of improvements across East Lancashire.

"We recognise that residents and businesses will have concerns about disruption while the works are carried out, particularly as a number of improvement projects are taking place across the area.

"We are working closely with contractors, the district council and other partners to coordinate activity and minimise impacts wherever possible.

"Once complete, the improvements will create a more welcoming and accessible town centre that residents, businesses and visitors can enjoy for years to come."

Ahead of the main construction works getting underway, residents, businesses and stakeholders will have the opportunity to find out more about the Bank Street and Hall Carr schemes at public drop-in sessions.

Representatives from Lancashire County Council, Rossendale Borough Council and the scheme's contractor, Casey, will be available to discuss the planned works, construction phasing and programme timescales.

Councillor Nick Harris, Lead Member for Economic Development at Rossendale Borough Council said: “There’s been a huge amount of work behind the scenes to get the project to this stage, and it’s good to see it now moving from plans into delivery.

“With a lot happening across Rawtenstall at the moment, I’d encourage local businesses, residents and anyone who uses the town centre to come along to the drop-in session on 9 October.

"You’ll be able to see what’s planned, find out how the works will be phased, what to expect over the coming months and speak directly to the teams delivering the project.

“There’s always a real sense of anticipation when you start to see a scheme like this take shape, but I’m looking forward to seeing the improvements come to life.”

Residents and businesses will receive letters with more details of the drop-in sessions this week, ahead of works getting underway.