BDP handed Rawtenstall brief
ARCHITECTS and planners BDP has been commissioned to lead a regeneration study for the Lancashire town of Rawtenstall.
The North West firm’s Liverpool studio will head the project, which also includes GH Regeneration and JMP.
The study will examine the viability of redevelopment options for the town centre, leading to a masterplan that will define the future sustainability of Rawtenstall as a vibrant market town.
The process will include looking at opportunities for enhancing the town centre, focusing on the redevelopment of the Valley Centre – a run-down 1960s-style shopping precinct which now has just one remaining tenant. The report is due to be completed by December.
Andrew Teage, head of BDP’s Liverpool Studio and the practice’s lead town planning consultant for the North, said: “Rawtenstall needs a long term planning solution which will help to regenerate the town centre – supporting the thriving independent high street shops, improving transport links and attracting new investment into the town.
“BDP and our partner consultants will be exploring a range of options for the town that will largely focus on the unpopular Valley Centre, other development opportunities in the town centre and the provision of a new public transport interchange.”
Tony Swain, leader of Rossendale Council described the project as a “crucial piece of work”.
He said: “We are looking for creative but practical options for regenerating the town centre in Rawtenstall that take account of the views of local people and the business community. Rawtenstall Town Centre requires a unique planning solution to make the most of future opportunities to grow and develop.”
