A 200-YEAR-OLD wharf is about to undergo a gigantic transformation into a "hub for the community."

Finsley Gate Wharf in Burnley will be overhauled into a cafe, bar, function room, overnight accommodation and education facilities.

The work will take around a year to complete and the wharf's owners, the Canal and River Trust, appointing contractors Rosslee Construction to oversee the build.

The £2.2million for the project is coming from The National Lottery Heritage Fund as well as resources from the European Regional Development Fund.

The trust is working with the future tenants of the site, Finsley Gate Wharf Ltd and architects, Donald Insall Associates, to transform the Grade II Listed buildings into a waterside destination.

Ian Sprott, development surveyor at the trust, said: "This is a giant step forward appointing the contractors to start physical restoration work.

"We are excited to see this important heritage site being transformed into an attractive visitor destination and a hub of activity for the local community.

"With the support of The National Heritage Lottery Fund, the European Regional Development Fund, Burnley Council, Finsley Gate Wharf Ltd and the local community, this promises to be an exciting space where people can learn about the local heritage and enjoy the fantastic wellbeing benefits of spending time on or near the water."

Opened in 1801,the "Mile Wharf", as it was known locally, was an important industrial hub for the north west and one of the oldest wharves on the Leeds and Liverpool Canal.

Glenn Davidson and Lee Shepherd, directors at Finsley Gate Wharf Ltd, said: "We look forward to the grand opening of this beautiful leisure facility located on the banks of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal.

"As well as supplying fantastic food and beverages for our visitors, we will also be hosting a large variety of events, activities and celebrations throughout the year.

"Finsley Gate Wharf is going to be a new and exciting focal point for Burnley residents and visitors alike."

When the plan was given the go-ahead last year, Burnley Council's chief executive, Mick Cartledge, said: "This scheme will breathe new life into an historic part of the borough and help create a regeneration link between the Weavers' Triangle and Burnley Wood.

"The new development will draw in more visitors to Burnley and tap into the economic and tourism potential of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal."