The newly completed Avenue Parade Gardens in Accrington have reopened to the public, featuring a touching sculpture and mural that commemorate the heartbreak experienced by local families during the First World War. The installations have been described as highly emotive, with councillors encouraging residents to visit and reflect on the bravery and sacrifice of those who served.
Sports Clubs Receive £8,000+ in Grants
Hyndburn Borough Council has awarded over £8,000 through the Cabinet Action Fund to support local sports clubs. Beneficiaries include Great Harwood Cricket and Sports Club, Huncoat United Junior Football Club, Accrington Cricket & Tennis Club, Oswaldtwistle Immanuel Cricket Club, and Great Harwood Rovers Football Club. These grants aim to provide young people with high-quality sporting facilities.
In addition, Eagle Street skatepark is set to receive an upgrade funded by the Government’s Pride in Place Impact Fund, allocated by the Council. The project underscores the council’s commitment to safe, well-equipped recreational spaces for youth. Further details on the consultation process will be announced in the coming weeks.
Gatty Park Play Area Renovation Complete
The renovation of Gatty Park play area will be finished by next week, just in time for families to enjoy during the summer holidays. The much-loved facility has been revitalised, and the council is delighted to see it back in use.
Hyndburn Retains 11 Green Flag Awards
Hyndburn Borough Council has successfully maintained all 11 of its Green Flag awards this year, recognising parks that meet the highest standards of excellence. The council thanked its dedicated parks team and the numerous ‘Friends of Parks’ volunteer groups for their efforts. Next year, the council aims to add a twelfth park, with improvements planned for Bullough Park to achieve Green Flag status.
Oak Hill Park, one of the award-winning green spaces, will host the world-famous Luminarium, an interactive sculpture, from July 22 to 25 as part of the Connecting Cultures event. Free workshops including storytelling, dance, and tai chi will take place during the week, culminating in a festival on July 25 with cultural food and drink stalls, fairground rides, and live performances.
Council Investigates Contamination at Brookside Nature Reserve
The council is investigating potential contaminants in parts of Brookside Nature Reserve in Oswaldtwistle as part of ongoing environmental improvement works. While acknowledging that news of contamination may cause concern, the council reassured residents that proactive steps are being taken to manage the situation and ensure the reserve remains a valued green space.
Hyndburn Local Plan 2040 Adopted
This week, the council will formally adopt the Hyndburn Local Plan 2040, a significant milestone that will guide the borough’s sustainable growth. The plan outlines where new homes, jobs, and infrastructure can be delivered while protecting community character and green spaces. It provides a strong framework for local planning decisions, developed through extensive public consultation and independent examination. The council will also begin work on a new local plan as required by new Government regulations, starting with a Scoping Consultation to engage residents, businesses, and stakeholders.
