FIRST steps towards a new £2.6 million multi-cultural community centre for Hyndburn have been given the go-ahead by council planners.

The move paves the way for a total refurbishment of the New Era complex, Paradise Street, Accrington, and now the project just needs the Millennium Commission to come up with a £1.3 million grant.

In order to make an early start, organisers lodged a planning application for part of the renovations.

These include a feature tower, car park and new accommodation in the roof space. Hyndburn development services committee meeting gave approval on condition material samples are passed by the council and details of parking and a landscaping scheme finalised. If the bid is successful, it is hoped New Era will become a multi-cultural community centre providing a venue for Asian family events, sports and music facilities for young people. It would also house a one-stop advice shop for low income families. New Era successfully passed a site visit by Commission officers in March, but may receive a further delegation before autumn, which could include Sir John Hall, chairman of Newcastle United Football Club.

Further bids are soon to be made to English Partnerships for money from the Community Investment Fund.

Bid co-ordinator George Garlick said: "Gaining planning provision will clear the way for work to begin on the centre if we win the Commission's support.

"Features like the tower will complement St James' steeple, visually improving the surrounding area, while the extra accommodation will enable maximum use of New Era."

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