St. Modwen welcomes the North West Minister to Burnley

St Modwen Properties PLC, the UK¹s leading regeneration specialist, welcomed Beverley Hughes MP, Minister for the North West, to its flagship development at Finsley Gate, Burnley.

The 7 acre development straddles the Leeds/Liverpool canal, and sits in a key position next to the Burnley Wood Elevate Housing Market Renewal area, being delivered by Burnley Council, and within the Weavers¹ Triangle project.

Burnley Wood was once an area of run down housing but in recent years has been considerably improved through substantial public sector investment. The Minister walked this area to see the improvements on the ground before arriving at Finsley Gate.

There the Minister inspected plans of the mixed-use development, and viewed the demolition of redundant buildings which is now in full swing.

St Modwen plans to deliver 20,000 sq.ft. of new employment accommodation targeted at local businesses, and up to 150 homes, comprising, 2, 3 and 4 bedroomed houses and apartments. The locally listed Healey Royd Mill will be retained and converted to apartments, and new houses built along the canal.

Pedestrian links to the town centre which is within 400 metres will be strengthened.

Michelle Taylor, Regional Director for St Modwen said: ³We acquired the site in January 2007 when the factory occupier closed down. We have worked very closely with Burnley Council to create this exciting regeneration project, and are delighted to be on site with demolition and site preparation.

The employment space will encourage new businesses, and allow existing ones to grow, providing job opportunities for local people following the factory closure.

Burnley does not have a good selection of housing close to its town centre, and this development will provide a choice of modern houses and apartments in a delightful canal side setting, within an easy walk of the town centre.

Councillor Gordon Birtwistle, Leader of Burnley Council said: ³On behalf of Burnley Council, I am delighted to see St Modwen committed to the Weavers Triangle area. This is real change on the ground: change that will create employment opportunities for the people of Burnley and assist with efforts to provide quality housing choice.

“St Modwen¹s quality investment is a reflection of private sector confidence in the council¹s Elevate programme and in Burnley as a place to invest. This really is great news.”

For further information contact Michelle Taylor of St Modwen (01925 825950).

Issued by Paul Raymer of Howle Chapman Raymer (0121 236 7771).