A LANDMARK former cinema in the heart of Rawtenstall can now look forward to three new main features.

The 94-year-old former ‘Picture House’ in Bacup Road looks set to be transformed into two stores and a takeaway after developers Hurstwood Holdings secured planning permission.

Bosses have seen the recent success of Vogue and Zazou, along the same parade and are eager to breathe new life into the building, also formerly known as the Heritage Arcade.

Company surveyor Andrew McCormack said: “Heritage Arcade is one of the most unique buildings in Rawtenstall so we are delighted to have obtained this permission.

“We hope that we can now progress forward with the building and secure some long-term tenants who will bring sought after amenities and further employment to the town centre.”

Hurstwood was behind the two new nightspot leases, which were extensively refurbished before being brought back to life.

The Victorian arcade was used as a filming backdrop for ‘Girls Night Out’ a late 90s Julie Walters and Brenda Blethyn picture.

But the building fell victim to a major fire in 1998, causing damage totalling £2million, and ended up in the hands of receivers.

Just four years ago there was even discussion regarding the building making way for the town’s still-to-be-built new bus station.

Emergency work has also been carried out over the past 18 months to safeguard passers-by after masonry fell from the top of the building’s facade.