Plans to halt the loss of unique architecture in the town centre have been unveiled.

Shop and building owners in Accrington are being invited to attend a series of free ‘Building for the Future’ events to find out how the ‘unique and rich heritage’ of the area can be preserved.

It is part of the Townscape Heritage Initiative which is set to transform the historic shopping area along Blackburn Road and create a public realm scheme outside the Town Hall and Market Hall commemorating the Accrington Pals.

The events are being run by Hyndburn council and Sympathetic Works Ltd and organisers said they hope to promote a ‘better understanding of the town centre buildings’ history’.

The first event ‘Shops of the Past’ will take place on Wednesday, April 13 from 6.30pm to 8.30pm and will look at how shop front designs have changed over the last 100 years.

It will be followed by a ‘How well do you know your building?’ event on May 11 and a ‘Using the right conservation materials’ on June 8. Everyone welcome.

For more information call Annette Birch on 07876 442462 or email Annette.birch@hyndburnbc.gov.uk.