THE OWNERS of a new wine bar which will occupy one of Great Harwood's most well-known buildings have promised to restore it to its former glory.

Business partners, and sisters, Angela Glynn and Beverley Sharples, were given planning permission last week to turn derelict Harwood House, on Glebe Street, which used to be the Co-operative building, into a bar and restaurant.

But Great Harwood Civic Society claimed they had not been consulted about the plans and criticised the development, saying the town didn't need another pub.

Now Angela and Beverley, who both live locally, have defended their venture, explaining how they are planning to restore the building in keeping with the original architect's plans and vision.

Angela said: "We don't want to change the character of the building, we want to bring its history back to the old and young people who will use the building. We want people to not just come in for a drink or something to eat but also to learn about the site's history."

As part of their business plan the sisters hope to restore as much of the original decor as they can, keeping it in line with the styles of the Art New Vogue period from the early part of last century. And so far they have encountered little resistance from locals, with many supplying the sisters with books and information about the site and the area's history.

Angela said: "With the building being such a focal point in Great Harwood a lot of people are all for it. They think it is good that something is happening with the building as it is in such a state." Beverley and Angela expect it will take about 10 months to realise their ambitious plans.

They refused to say how much they were spending on the project but said it would be given a name connected to the history of the building.

In 1902 a vicarage was built on the site, but it was pulled down six years later to make way for the three storey Co-operative building.

For nearly 80 years the building served the needs of Great Harwood people, housing a range of shops, including a tailors, dressmakers, and millers until 1996 when a firm called Bedding Box moved into the premises. But since 1999 Harwood House has stood empty and in ruin.

If anyone has or knows the whereabouts of the building's original plans and details of its original colour scheme call Beverley on 01254 882104.