Accrington’s Town Centre Transformation Continues with Newly Completed Pocket Parks
Accrington’s Town Centre Transformation Continues with Newly Completed Pocket Parks
Significant progress has been made on Hyndburn Borough Council’s initiative to enhance green spaces across Accrington town centre, with two more pocket parks now fully refurbished and open to the public.
Image, left to right: Cllr Clare Pritchard; Cath Holmes, Chair of Hyndburn Green Spaces Forum; Cllr Stewart Eaves.
Following the successful initial improvements at the corner of Bank Street and Warner Street earlier this year, work has now been completed at sites on Oak Street and opposite the Canine Club in Accrington. Both locations have been revitalised with newly laid surfacing and the installation of new benches, creating high-quality, accessible areas for residents and visitors to relax and enjoy the town. Visitors to the Oak Street seating area are encouraged to look out for unique artistic detail that has been integrated into the new paving.
These improvements are part of a wider town centre project funded by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. The initiative aims to create a network of beautiful and functional “pocket parks.”
Councillor Stewart Eaves, Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Environmental Services, said:
“It is fantastic to see our vision for a greener town centre taking shape. The completion of the parks on Oak Street and opposite the Canine Club adds two more beautifully refreshed spaces for the community to enjoy. The new benches, surfacing and the creative paving detail on Oak Street are small but significant improvements that enhance the daily experience of our town. We are grateful for the continued collaboration with our partners and eagerly anticipate the next phase of this project at Avenue Parade Gardens later this year.”
Cath Holmes, Chair of Hyndburn Green Spaces Forum, added:
“It is absolutely brilliant to see these plans, which our group has been discussing with the Council for many months, come to life. The transformation of these small pockets of land is wonderful. It’s not just about new benches or paving; it’s about creating welcoming, green spots right in the heart of our town where people can just sit or meet a friend. We are thrilled with the results, especially the lovely artistic detail on Oak Street, and are incredibly excited to see the amazing plans for Avenue Parade Gardens come next.”
Councillor Clare Pritchard, Portfolio Holder for Transformation and Town Centres, said:
“These pocket parks are a brilliant example of how thoughtful investment and community collaboration can breathe new life into our town centre. Despite these spaces being relatively small in size, they add character, charm, and some welcome green space to Accrington. These improvements are just some of many projects ongoing to improve the experience of those who visit the town centre.”
The improvements complement the recently refurbished Accrington Pals Memorial Garden in the area, which saw a more attractive seating area created with green features and the installation of the acclaimed Accrington Pals sculpture.
The project will continue later this year with the large-scale transformation of Avenue Parade Gardens. This site is set to be enhanced with quality materials, new horticultural features, additional trees, and a bespoke sculpture designed by renowned artist John Everiss.
The Council has worked closely with the Accrington Town Centre Green Team, Accrington and Rossendale College, and other partners to bring these projects to fruition.
Alongside pocket park developments three new mural artworks have been commissioned, that have been co-designed with the community and local artists. Everyone is welcome to be part of the designing and join the artists in a creative workshop on Friday 15th August, 11am-3pm, in Accrington DOME shop on the town square, opposite Accrington Market Hall. No booking is needed and everyone is welcome to join in.
Funding for this project has been provided by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.