A mill town in East Lancs is the focus of new activity to develop a masterplan for its future development, including a potential focus on the arts and the outdoors.

Early ideas for Waterfoot in Rossendale include restoration of the historic Trickett’s Arcade, art murals, better street furniture, railway tunnel illuminations, a new bus turning area and a riverside path.

A new multi-purpose spa, hotel, hospitality, cinema and events centre, like Holmes Mill in Clitheroe or Crow Wood in Burnley have also been mooted.

The town  is included in a new £20m Long Term Plan for Towns Deal covering Rawtenstall and Crawshawbooth.

The deal was offered to Rossendale Council by the previous Conservative government and recently formally accepted by councillors.

This month, a draft Waterfoot master-plan is being shared for public consultation following early talks and preparatory works. Rossendale council is  inviting residents, visitors and anyone with an interest in Waterfoot to help shape a long-term ‘vision’.

An on-line survey will be open through the summer and an engagement session is due next week to gather feedback for the plan’s development.

Draft plans have been drawn-up by Rawtenstall-based landscape architects Square Yard. The proposals aim to address Waterfoot’s town centre opportunities and barriers, with the aim of increasing its appeal, vibrancy and appearance.

The council is encouraging people who live, work or shop in the area to provide feedback through an on-line survey running through August until Friday, September 6.

People are also invited to an engagement session next week, Wednesday, August 14, to discuss the plans, make comments and speak with the council’s economic development staff about the regeneration of Waterfoot. The drop-in session will run from 4pm to 6pm at the Waterfoot Lamppost, (Waterfoot Old Library).

Cllr Alyson Barnes, borough leader, said: “We are excited to share the draft plans for Waterfoot’s development, and we invite people to get involved with the process. Their insights, ideas, and feedback are invaluable and we want to ensure that our vision reflects the unique needs and aspirations of our community Together, we can shape a vibrant and thriving town centre that people are proud to live, work and invest in.”

Last year, Rossendale Council received £300,000 from the previous government’s  UK Shared Prosperity fund for the area’s development. Now, the future plans may be developed through the new £20m Long Term Plan for Towns funding.

The council said its long-term vision for Waterfoot aims to develop the area into an ‘arts town’ and destination for exploring the outdoors.

The on-line survey and other formation about Waterfoot activities can be found on the council’s website.