A recent meeting of the Amazing Accrington Business Leaders Forum provoked discussions between attendees as to the exciting times which are on the horizon for the re-development of Accrington town centre. The meeting, hosted by Murray Dawson of Scott Dawson Advertising was followed by uplifting talks from Ivor Lefton, the Managing Director of Taskers Furniture in Accrington, who highlighted the fact that the cohesion between business leaders, and more particularly his involvement with Accrington Stanley, demonstrate the strong bond and business opportunities that are available within Hyndburn. This was supported by Kelly Groves of Sundown Solutions who have recently secured certification as Microsoft expert who is a family-owned Hyndburn business. Both speakers encouraged all businesses to invest in the Borough and access the skilled labour within the community which is on offer.
The anticipated development within the town centre has been brought to the forefront by the securing of £23 million pounds in levelling up grants from central government as part of the Accrington town centre investment plan. The focus headed up by the Accrington Heritage Trust is initially to transform Market Chambers, which is immediately opposite the historic Market Hall, and refurbish to form an arts, culture and heritage centre. In order to assist, an extra £5 million pounds National Lottery application has been submitted. The building will showcase the heritage of the Borough of Hyndburn, host live performances, with an adjoining café and restaurant.
This is of course excellent news for Accrington and Hyndburn as a whole. Trevor Dawson would encourage any business leaders who are thinking of becoming involved at whatever level with the town centre investment to make contact with Murray Dawson, who chairs the events, at [email protected]