THE latest artist’s impression of the first phase of a £20 million redevelopment of Rawtenstall town centre have been released.

Architects were tasked with redesigning the scheme to address concerns raised in the public consultation by some heritage groups.

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Councillor Alyson Barnes, chairman of the Rawtenstall Together Barnfield Partnership, said this has resulted in a slight “rethink” on some of the plans.

She said: “I am very clear on the importance of listening to people to make sure the schemes we want to deliver are the best they can be and reflect what people want.

“We have listened to people following on from the last round of consultations, gone back and had a rethink and produced these new plans which I believe are now the right mix of preserving the area’s heritage as well as creating a vibrant town centre.”

The new scheme was amended to keep the most attractive parts of Rawtenstall Town Hall, reduce the height of the new bus station and retain a public square and open space.

Another consultation will now run from today until October 30.

The council has said it would like lots of people to get involved and share their comments.

The first part of the consultation will be in Rawtenstall town centre and runs from today until next Saturday.

The council said the scheme, being led by the Rossendale Together Barnfield Partnership, will create hundreds of new jobs and is central to economic growth and bringing in new investment into the borough.

Cllr Barnes also warned of the dangers if the development fails.

She said: ““This development is vital to the growth and prosperity of the borough and is key to bringing in new investment.

“But I also have to be clear that without redevelopments such as these Rossendale could be left behind.”

Tim Webber, vice-chairman of the RTB Partnership, said: “We want an attractive and exciting development which reflects Rawtenstall’s history on this site and we believe these plans deliver that.”

Mike Damms, chief executive of the East Lancashire Chamber of Commerce, said: “The scheme will deliver new jobs and support business growth.”