Work begins at Pendle Rise as Nelson town centre transformation moves forward

The demolition contractor has taken over the site, with crews now active inside the building. In the coming months, gas, water and electricity will be disconnected, an asbestos survey will be carried out and any material found will be safely removed.

A full strip-out of the remaining fixtures will then take place before demolition gets under way in mid-April.

Coun. Asjad Mahmood, deputy leader of Pendle Borough Council and Nelson Town Deal board member, said: “It’s great news that we are starting to see things happen and the project is beginning to move forward.

“The demolition of Pendle Rise will bring us a step closer to seeing the transformation of Nelson’s town centre, which will attract investment, create jobs and provide our residents and visitors with a place to enjoy spending time in. It’s exciting to see that our vision is now becoming a reality.”

Supported by Government funding through the Nelson Town Deal, this major project will breathe new life into the heart of Nelson.

Pendle Borough Council’s vision is to create a vibrant and welcoming town centre with a modern retail offering, a range of food options, parking for over 150 cars and landscaped outdoor areas.

The scheme will be delivered by Penbrook, a partnership between Pendle Borough Council and Brookhouse, a leading expert in retail centre developments.

Heritage features from Pendle Rise, including the mosaic compass and the Nelson bust will be retained and included in the new retail complex celebrating the town’s history.

Stephen Barnes, Chair of Nelson Town Deal, added: “The demolition of Pendle Rise is central to our plans to redevelop Nelson town centre.

“There are exciting times ahead as we watch the transformation unfold and the old is replaced with the new.”