Haslingden regeneration update January 2026
Rossendale Borough Council has issued an update on the public realm improvements taking place along Higher Deardengate in Haslingden, with key sections of the road set to reopen by the end of January and a full programme of town centre events planned for 2026.
The works form part of the Council’s long-term commitment to creating a safer, more accessible and more welcoming town centre, supporting local businesses while making Haslingden a more attractive place to visit, spend time and invest.
Progress on site continues, and the Council has confirmed that from 30 January 2026, the following sections of Deardengate will reopen to traffic:
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Deardengate between Pleasant Street and Hindle Street
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Deardengate from Bank Street north to Bury Road
This will restore access to Hindle Street car park behind the library, which has remained open throughout the works.
Work will then continue in the central section between Hindle Street and Bank Street, with completion scheduled for 20 February 2026. To allow flexibility during the final stages, the existing road closure notice will remain in place with an extended timeframe, even as sections reopen as planned.
Rossendale Borough Council recognises that the works have caused frustration for some residents and businesses. However, these improvements are designed to deliver lasting benefits, including improved pedestrian movement, better accessibility and a town centre environment that supports events, markets and local trade for years to come.
Council Leader Alyson Barnes said: “We know these works have required patience, and we’d like to thank everyone in Haslingden for their understanding while improvements have been carried out.
“What’s important is what this investment will deliver: a safer, more welcoming town centre that supports local businesses and creates the right setting for community life and events. With completion now in sight, we’re excited to see Haslingden move into the next phase of its regeneration.”
With the end of the works approaching, the Council has also confirmed a calendar of events for Haslingden in 2026, designed to bring people back into the town centre and build on the improved public spaces. Planned events include:
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The return of the Haslingden Street Fair
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A returning Grubs Up event
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Mother’s Day celebrations
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VE Day commemorations
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An Art Festival
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Music Makers sessions
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Monthly Second Saturday Makers Markets
The Council is keen to involve the community in shaping these events and is inviting performers, traders, entertainers, schools and community groups to get involved and share ideas.
Residents and businesses are also encouraged to attend weekly drop-in sessions with the project team, held every Friday from 12pm to 1pm at Haslingden Market, where they can ask questions about the works or discuss upcoming events.
Further information
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Visit the dedicated project webpage: https://bit.ly/haslingden26
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Contact the Bethell Community Liaison Manager, Richard Lapping, Richard.lapping@bethell.co.uk
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To get involved in events, email: Haslingden2040@rossendalebc.gov.uk