Waterfoot
Draft Waterfoot Masterplan
Rossendale Borough Council, in partnership with Rawtenstall-based landscape architects Square Yard, has developed the Draft Waterfoot Masterplan, a comprehensive strategy designed to revitalise Waterfoot. This document outlines our vision for Waterfoot's development over the next one to twenty years, encompassing short, medium, and long-term objectives. The Masterplan aims to breathe new life into the community while preserving its unique character and heritage.
Short-Term Objectives (1-5 years)
1. Public Art Initiative: We plan to collaborate with Waterfoot's talented artists to create distinctive public art throughout the town. This will include murals, innovative street furniture, and creative public realm designs. We will also improve the illumination of tunnels to enhance safety and aesthetics.
2. Community Events Calendar: A diverse programme of events will be established to foster community engagement and enliven the town centre.
3. Bus Turning Circle Reconfiguration: The existing bus turning circle will be redesigned to create additional public space. This area will eventually be developed into a town square-like space, featuring an expanded children's playground and potential commercial developments such as cafes.
4. Enhanced Wayfinding: We will implement improved signage to guide visitors to key locations, including car parks.
Medium-Term Goals (5-10 years)
1. Trickett's Arcade Restoration: We aim to collaborate with the owner of this Grade II listed building to restore both its interior and exterior to their former glory. The central space will be reopened to the public and filled with a variety of independent shops. This project will also involve improvements to the public realm between the Arcade, Victoria Mill, and the former Railway Pub.
2. Mill Repurposing: We will work alongside property owners to find new purposes for vacant mills in the area, preserving our industrial heritage while meeting modern needs.
Long-Term Ambitions (10-20 years)
1. Riverside Walk Development: We plan better to utilise the space behind the shops on Bacup Road to create a picturesque riverside walk. This will improve pedestrian safety and enhance connectivity with existing walking and cycling routes. A linear park will be introduced along this walk to strengthen the connection between the path and the river.
2. 'Base Camp' Creation: To support our growing visitor economy, we aim to establish a 'base camp' for those exploring the Pennine Bridleway, Mary Townley Loop, and Valley of Stone Greenway. This will include various accommodation options such as campsites, backpacking hostels, and hotels.
3. Rural Activities Hub and Wellness Retreat: We aspire to transform an existing building into a multi-purpose facility for residents and visitors alike. This hub will offer amenities such as a gym, spa, swimming pool, cinema, restaurant, hotel, and events venue, drawing inspiration from successful examples like Holmes Mill in Clitheroe and Crow Wood in Burnley.
