A MASTERPLAN that will help shape Rawtenstall town centre for years to come is to be launched.

It will draw together developments planned in the town over the next few years and follows various discussions between the council and other organisations over its future.

So far, no company has being commissioned to carry out the work but a report to Rossendale Council's executive said the work will soon be tendered, subject to approval from the North West Development Agency, which will fund the project.

The report, which councillors will discuss when they meet on Wednesday, highlights the need to redevlop the town by improving retail and leisure facilities.

It concludes: "The process is not simple but there is widespread commitment to get the job done. This work is crucial to the prosperity and well-being of Rossendale citizens and can be seen by the fact that 55 per cent of residents use Rawtenstall for their main food shop."

Council officers are also carrying out work to assess future accommodation, which will result in a range of options for ward members to consider.

Confidential meetings have also been held with other developers and agents with interests in the town centre, which the report says have shown a "clear commitment to transform Rawtenstall."