A MOVE to restore Padiham's historic buildings to their former glory came a step closer last night after councillors gave proposals the green light.

Burnley Council will now apply for £300,000 of funding from conservation body English Heritage to repair and bring derelict or underused historic buildings back into use in a bid to spearhead the regeneration of the town.

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."

If the funding application is successful Padiham Life, the regeneration body formed to effect 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.