Leaders monthly update Nov 25
It’s easy sometimes to look at things in isolation, to see only the short-term disruptions, the roadworks, or the temporary inconveniences, without stepping back to see the bigger picture. But regeneration is, by its very nature, about short-term pain for long-term gain. It takes planning, persistence and partnership to deliver the kind of change that makes a lasting difference.
Across Rossendale, that bigger picture is coming together. The Valley Plan, which sets out how we will support regeneration, housing, business and the environment, is already being delivered on the ground. It’s about creating the right conditions for investment while keeping Rossendale’s distinctive character at the heart of everything we do, which is not always easy.
In Waterfoot, the £200,000 Waterfoot Arts Town project continues to move forward. This investment will breathe new life into the town centre, creating new spaces for people to gather and enjoy local arts and culture. The vision is to build on Waterfoot’s creative strengths, a place where independent businesses and the arts community work hand in hand to make the town a destination once again.
Haslingden, too, is seeing great progress through the Higher Deardengate Big Lamp Project, part of the wider Haslingden 2040 Vision. The £3 million scheme will restore the town’s historic character and bring new energy into the centre. The recently completed mural has received fantastic feedback, adding a real sense of pride and colour to the area. Three Business Retail Renaissance workshops are taking place in November to support local businesses in making the most of the opportunities regeneration brings. A number of microgrants have also been awarded, including one for Rossendale Works, which will be opening a new fruit and veg stall on the market every Friday in partnership with the DWP’s self-employed programme. The Heritage Lottery Fund recently visited the town, were pleased with the progress made so far, and gave a clear steer about their continued investment.
Bacup is another place where change is on the way. While the redevelopment of Bacup Market is a key part of the plan, it’s not the whole story. Improvements will take place across the wider town centre and along Union Street, helping to make Bacup more welcoming, accessible and attractive for residents and visitors alike. Two public consultation sessions have already been held, supported by an online survey that generated over 90 responses - valuable feedback that will help shape the final plans.
In Rawtenstall, work on the gyratory is progressing well and will help tackle long-standing traffic issues while improving safety and accessibility. Alongside that, plans for Rawtenstall Market will see further investment to build on its growing reputation as a lively and sustainable hub for local food, drink and retail.
Whitworth continues to see real progress, with improved play areas, better-maintained green spaces and the Memorial Gardens earning a Green Flag Award thanks to the work of the Parks Team and Whitworth in Bloom. Day-to-day investment is also evident, from upgraded litter bins and a dedicated town centre caretaker to new equipment helping us maintain spaces like the cycleway. Working with the Town Council, we’re also looking at ways to celebrate Whitworth’s history through the Shared Prosperity Fund, building on what makes the town special while looking firmly to the future.
Taken together, these projects show that regeneration in Rossendale is not happening in isolation but as part of a joined-up approach for the whole Valley. Each town has its own story and priorities, but they are all connected by a shared vision — to make Rossendale an even better place to live, work and visit.
There’s still a lot of work ahead, and yes some disruption too, but momentum is building and the benefits are beginning to show. Change doesn’t happen overnight, but by keeping our focus on that bigger picture and working together, we’re shaping a stronger, more vibrant Rossendale for the future.
As always, I’d love to hear your thoughts or ideas. You can get in touch with me by phone on 07817 414248 or by email at alysonbarnes@rossendalebc.gov.uk.