A social enterprise group has received more than £300,000 to turn a listed building into a food bank.

Community Solutions North West (CSNW) has been awarded government funding to transform the Grade II-listed Elmfield Hall into an environmentally efficient community facility.

Plans for the vacant building in Gatty Park, Accrington, also include providing befriending and training activities, a cafe and toilet facilities for park users. The second phase of the work will also see the provision of a small number of affordable residential flats.

The building was originally constructed in about 1850 and was home to local chemical manufacturers the Gatty family.

Over the years it has had a number of uses including a community centre and flats.

CSNW, which is based on Cannon Street in Accrington, said they are currently in talks with Hyndburn council about the ‘very exciting project’ and hope it will provide ‘increased community support’ in the town.

Mark Hirst, of CSNW, said: “Once the technical details have been decided we will have more information about the project.

“CSNW is an innovative social enterprise. We specialise in identifying and offering a range of community support. We are committed to offering hope and opportunity to local people.”

Hyndburn council confirmed talks are ongoing with Community Solutions North West.

Elmfield Hall is among 17 buildings across the country to benefit from a £5.5 million boost to help them reopen to the public or improve their existing use.

The Department for Communities and Local Government’s community assets fund, managed by the Social Investment Business Group, will pay for repairs, refurbishment and create local jobs.

Minister for Communities, Stephen Williams, said: “The helping hand we are offering will help these schemes get off the ground and provide inspiration for other communities to follow suit.”

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