A well-known Accrington town centre store which has become an eyesore after closing several years ago is finally being refurbished.

Councillors lobbying to issue enforcement notices on the owners of the former Barnes furniture store have been reassured it will reopen as a cafe.

Lettings agents said a revamp was already under way to turn the site into a church-owned community cafe and furniture store.

The derelict store, next to St James’s Church and a nearby conservation area, has suffered arson attacks and its condition has deteriorated since it closed in 2005.

Burnley-based letting agents Aspire said the lease had recently been taken up by Christian Life Ministries who wish to use it as a fund-raising base.

They said work had already started on the roof ahead of a full refurbishment.

Councillors had been pursuing enforcement orders after a lack of action.

Former mayor Coun Paul Barton said: “I have been campaigning for a long time as the site is a disgrace to the town.

"It was essential something was done after so much time.

"If it becomes a cafe, at least it will be occupied and useful.”

Council leader Peter Britcliffe said they would persist in making sure building owners kept properties to a decent standard.

He said: “We get many complaints about derelict properties and we will always take action.

"Hopefully the repairs will be undertaken and make a difference."

Coun Peter Clarke, portfolio holder for regeneration, added: “This is something I had asked officers to look into as it is in such a prominent position.

"We said the boards would have to come down and the fascia boards needed tidying up to a proper standard.”

Jamie Ferguson, from Aspire, said: “Christian Life Ministries have already begun the refurbishment.

"After taking up the lease in January they hope to create a fund-raising base for both themselves and other local charities.”