Waterfoot Masterplan approved
Rossendale Borough Council's (RBC) Cabinet has officially approved the Masterplan for Waterfoot, outlining an ambitious vision to revitalise the town into "a place to relax and unwind, a place for adventure, a place for arts and culture to thrive, a place for all". The plan outlines an exciting future for the town and community with opportunities to enhance its historic character, support local arts, and create vibrant public spaces.
Backed by a £300,000 investment from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UK SPF) and potential opportunities from the £20 million Long Term Plan for Towns Funding, the Masterplan outlines three key projects that will drive the transformation of Waterfoot:
1. Acquisition and fit-out of a shop in Trickett’s Arcade – This space will serve as a community hub, with plans for a café and a versatile area for local artists to host workshops, exhibitions, and events.
2. Creation of a temporary public realm area – Designed as a flexible outdoor venue, this area will be a focal point for community events, performances, and cultural activities, further enhancing Waterfoot’s appeal as a gathering place.
3. Micro-grant scheme for artists – This initiative will provide small grants to local artists, allowing them to create and share their work nurturing Waterfoot’s rich artistic legacy
The Masterplan, developed by Rawtenstall-based landscape architects Square Yard, has been shaped by community input, with over 550 local residents participating in the consultation process. The objectives of the plan include increasing footfall in the town centre, improving pedestrian connections, and celebrating Waterfoot’s rich arts and cultural history.
Waterfoot’s historic charm, original architecture, and strong ties to the arts are at the heart of the plan. The revitalisation efforts will also feature a public consultation on a conservation area appraisal in the coming months, ensuring that the town’s heritage is preserved while new opportunities are created.
Councillor Nick Harris, a strong supporter of the project, said: “This Masterplan is a huge step forward for Waterfoot. It celebrates the town’s unique character, its strong sense of community, and its artistic legacy. We have an incredible opportunity to make Waterfoot a hub for creativity, culture, and business. This first step will allow us to create spaces where people can gather, collaborate, and experience the best of what our town has to offer.”
The Council has also established an Arts Working Group, linked to the Rawtenstall Town Board, and made up of representatives from local arts organisations, to ensure continued support for artistic initiatives in the community. This group will play a key role in shaping the town’s cultural future, further cementing Waterfoot as a destination for arts and culture.
It is hoped the approval of the Masterplan will mark an exciting new chapter for Waterfoot bringing about positive changes that not only celebrate the town’s heritage but also create fresh opportunities for local businesses, artists, and residents alike.