COLNE'S Victorian town hall could become a 'palace for the people' combining historic architecture and a modern centre for delivering council services.

Borough chiefs say the hall is a jewel among public buildings, but its dusty image gives visitors a 'dismal' reception.

Pendle council's ruling Liberals want to make the town hall more customer friendly.

Councillor Tony Greaves, chairman of the Colne committee, said: "The real challenge is to provide the people of Colne with a modern council-shop-type service with modern facilities and modern technology, and at the same time return as much as possible of the inside of the building to its former Victorian glory."

There are plans to refurbish the council chamber and mayor's parlour - possible venues for weddings - return the reception area to its original state and improve disabled access with a new lift to complement the entrance ramp.

Funds could come from an English Heritage grant. Mr Greaves said: "The heritage work depends on getting this grant, but meanwhile we are pressing ahead with providing better facilities."

A one-stop council shop, with an entrance on Newmarket Street, will be the place for citizens to go for all the council's services in Colne.

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