AN entrepreneur is planning to turn Burnley wharf into a major tourist attraction with a £ million plan to build a marina and amphitheatre.

Dennis Bull, 64, wants to transform the canal berth at Finsley Gate into a waterside pleasure garden which will get visitors flocking from miles around.

Single regeneration budget cash will help fund the work to create wildlife gardens, an education centre, a souvenir shop, a cafe and a centre for boat trips.

Mr Bull, who will live in the site's canal house, also wants to renovate the old forge and install a working blacksmith. The work could be finished by this time next year.

He said: "The aim is to create a pleasant facility for everybody at what is a unique location in Burnley.

"If done properly, this could become a great asset to the town. There is nowhere else in Burnley where you can actually get onto the water.

"The idea is to provide a place where children can learn about the history of the area, or where people can just come and sit by the water.

"Day boats will travel up and down the water, and we could produce a cassette to give a running commentary on the history of the canal and accompanying industry."

He added: "I have had a lot of help from Burnley council and British Waterways. The buildings at Burnley wharf are subject to strict planning controls, so this will be a sensitive scheme in keeping with the surroundings."

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