AMBITIOUS plans are being drawn up revive Bacup's dilapidated market hall building.

Developers are hoping to restore the "forgotten jewel" back to its former glory and transform it into a 21st Century market hall.

Bacup's Market Hall, situated next to the town's police station, has stood empty for a number of years.

Tracy Stratton, as asset surveyor for Rawtenstall-based Hurstwood Group, the company behind the plans, said: "It will take a lot of planning, a lot of hard work and time.

"But the Market Hall is something of a forgotten jewel. We firmly believe we can give Bacup back a building which has a wealth of history, heritage and character.

"It has suffered decades of decay but we believe it could be a thriving centre which is once again at the heart of the community.

"We are keen to retain the building's character and would like to see in part the creation of a 21st Century market hall."

Hurstwood bought the building earlier this year and have already held talks with a number of parties about potential future uses. Tracy said: "We are already consulting widely about the project but we would also welcome any suggestions.

"We estimate the whole process of regeneration and construction could take up to 18 months. "

Immediate remedial work - costing around £20,000 - has already been carried out to halt the deterioration of the building.

Work had to be carried out at the gable end of the property and on the chimney stack. The next phase is to clean out the interior of the building and the shops.