PADIHAM'S historic buildings could be restored to their former glory in a bid to spearhead the regen-eration of the town.

Burnley Council is to apply for £300,000 of funding from conservation body English Heritage to repair and bring derelict or underused historic buildings back into use.

The councillor responsible for the town's environment, Denis Otter, today said the scheme would help drive forward the renaissance of the town.

He said: "The proposed scheme has the potential to make a major impact in Padiham.

"There are many historic buildings in the town and this would help realise their full potential.

"It would also stimulate investment in the local economy and make the town more attractive to visitors."

Burnley Council's executive is recommended to approve the application when it meets tomorrow.

If rubber-stamped the authority will apply to English Heritage's partnership scheme for funding.

And if that is successful Padiham Life, the regeneration body formed to affect change in the town, will put up another £125,000.

The cash would be used on up to 30 buildings including three listed properties lying in the conservation area in Burnley Road.

Work would start in 2007 and could include re-roofing, pointing or reinstating architectural features such as doors and windows traditional to the town.

Coun Otter added: "It would help fund repairs and help preserve and enhance buildings, bring others back into use and help secure Padiham's future by building on its historic past."