A UNIQUE meeting place for Accrington residents could soon be opened in the town's railway station.

The county council's transport boss has revealed that a community facility could be installed as part of a planned overhaul of the railway station.

Local groups meet at the station and there would be a small heritage centre, incorporating items of local interest. The community room could also hold information displays about the area.

County Councillor Jean Yates, portfolio holder for highways and transport at Lancashire County Council, said: "It would be a facility that would enable people to know more about Hyndburn and its history. It could also be used as a meeting room."

County council chiefs, who are working with the Strategic Rail Authority on funding the project, are looking at stations like Carnforth, near Lancaster, which houses a small display of items and information relating to the film 'Brief Encounter' which was shot at the station.

The Accrington development is still in the planning stages, but it is likely that the station will be completely overhauled, with a new booking office a priority.

Groups including the local Rotary club have expressed an interest in the Accrington facility, and have offered to help in the development.

The station is likely to be overhauled to complement the bus station, which is set to be built in a few years' time.