AMBITIOUS plans to demolish a dilapidated shopping centre and build an ice rink have been announced.

Bosses at the Rawtenstall Chamber of Trade said that the project could be a viable plan for the future of the controversial Valley Centre in the town.

Last week’s eagerly awaited ‘State of the Borough’ debate saw the local authorities pressed for a temporary solution to the controversial eyesore in Bank Street, Rawtenstall.

David Gould, Rawtenstall Chamber of Commerce, who infuriated councillors with a sarcastic postcard highlighting the problem of the Valley Centre, was at the debate.

He said: “The ice rink proposal is one many people are keen on.

“It will offer the people of Rawtenstall something to do in the town as well relieving residents of the current burden.

“I think the site needs to be demolished quickly to make way for a temporary scheme at least.”

Other possible solutions included a large car park and also a Christmas Market located in the unused sector of the community centre.

Coun Alyson Barnes expressed her frustrations with the Valley Centre talks at the debate.

Speaking afterwards, she said: “To be honest no conclusions were made at the meeting though things do seem to be progressing.

“I think the council has to go along with the proposal to demolish the Valley Centre early next year.

“A temporary solution like an ice rink could well be the right move for the people of Raw-tenstall.”

A council spokesperson said: “We are looking at a number of different options for the short term use of the Valley Centre site once our demolition objective has been secured.

“One of the options being examined is for an ice rink to be installed.”