The iconic Victorian Arcade is set to be returned to its former glory under bold plans announced by a local businessman.
The Grade II-listed building in Accrington town centre, which is believed to be the first indoor shopping arcade of its kind in the country, has been recently taken over by TNR Developments Ltd.
Owner Tariq Aslam, who also runs the Paxton Mill Accident Repair Centre on Willows Lane in Accrington, said he now wants to make people ‘feel proud’ of the building again.
Work has already begun to replace window frames and signs and historic features including the stained glass will be cleaned and repaired.
A new roof will be installed over the summer along with a new tile floor.
Planning permission is also being sought to install automatic gates at both entrances to improve security.
Mr Aslam, who has lived in Accrington for 20 years, said he hopes the investment will help attract more traders and footfall.
The 46-year-old said: “I would like to contribute something back to Accrington because it has given me so much.
“It’s now my home and I want to make something here and make people proud of it again.
“There’s a lot of history in the building. It’s in the heart of Accrington and deserves to be put back to its former glory.
“We want to give it a more modern look while still retaining its historic features.
“We want to give people the confidence to set up their business here and have that feel-good factor.
“It’s a fabulous building.”
Richard Greenwood, owner of Arcade E-Cigs, said he was excited about the plans.
He said: “I’m really happy with the work they are doing and it’s going to look really good when it’s done.
“It’s what the Arcade has needed for a while.”
Council leader Miles Parkinson said the Arcade is one of the borough’s ‘most iconic shopping places’ and welcomed the plans.
He said: “I’m extremely pleased they are putting this investment in.”
