Has Queen Street Mill been thrown a lifeline?

The Burnley Express understands Lancashire County Council is in talks with private groups to run the museum, which is set to close in April as part of the authority’s huge cost-saving measures.

Burnley councillor and historian Roger Frost revealed he had been told groups were interested in running the “unique” museum.

He said: “Queen Street Mill is a vital heritage asset in terms of Lancashire’s cotton industry and must be protected.

“I have been told by people connected to Lancashire County Council that there are groups interested in running it.

“I hope this is true because it is vital Queen Street remains open.”

A spokesman for Lancashire County Council would not confirm the identity of the interested parties but did say the authority would be willing to keep the museum open if talks prove productive.

Queen Street Mill’s 300 power looms are still driven by its famous steam engine “Peace” in the Victorian weaving shed.

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