A GRANT of over a million pounds will be used to restore a repurpose 22 buildings - including a former cinema.

Work on the high street heritage action zone in Bacup is to begin after £1.085m in grant funding was confirmed.

Rossendale Council applied to Historic England for funding to restore and repurpose 22 buildings including the former Regal Cinema.

The properties will be given a new lease of life and see their architectural features refurbished using traditional materials and techniques.

Other buildings will be repurposed to better meet the needs of the local community. There is also a public realm element which includes interpretation and art work to add vibrancy to the town centre.

Councillor Jackie Oakes, Portfolio Holder for Bacup 2040, said: “I am thrilled that Bacup has secured Historic England funding to help breathe new life into a number of town centre buildings. We will look to restore the historical features and heritage that Bacup is widely known for.

"Town Centres are struggling across the country and have taken a further decline due to the current Covid 19 pandemic, the high street heritage action zone funding will not only preserve these buildings but will also repurposes much need and under used space to enable more community and cultural uses.

"The range of community engagement activities and training opportunities we have planned are innovative and will truly make this a project the whole community can get involved in."

Councillor Alyson Barnes, leader of the Council, said:“I am delighted we have secured more funding to continue improving Bacup.

"Things are really happening in the town. Bacup is well and truly on the up. We will continue to bring in the funding and investment to continue the journey the town is on. Our priority as a Council is the help all our town centres to thrive. Even though we face dark