Finishing touches to Nelson before big re-opening

New trees are taking root in the large amphitheatre which surrounds the Nelson Shuttle sculpture and flowers and greenery are being planted there.

The chair of Nelson Area Committee, Councillor Nadeem Younis, said: "I'm amazed at how well it's coming together in time for our free celebration.

"Each day that I come down it looks different and a lot of progress has been made."

From Friday (19th August) people will be able to try out the new granite seating blocks and if the weather improves, enjoy an ice cream or sandwich in a greener town centre.

"I urge all Pendle people to come and take a look at the new Nelson.  It's a radical improvement and vital that people take a fresh look," added Nadeem.

Debbie Taylor, Pendle Council's Landscape Architect, has been involved including choosing the plants and trees.

She said: "We've planted semi-mature trees including lime, ornamental pear and hornbeam along the town centre's new boulevard.

"These are traditional urban street trees which will liven up the area with beautiful green leaves and blossom.

"And in the central amphitheatre space we've chosen topiary balls, box shaped trees, and colourful grasses.

"The town centre will look different every season!"

Hanna Latty, Pendle Council's Town Centres Officer explained:

"To celebrate our new look town centre, we have a fun packed day lined up for everyone, with a colourful car art parade, Lancashire dialect poetry readings, a chopper dash and live music going on from 10 am to 4pm.

"Anyone wanting to see the 16 weird and wonderful car art vehicles rigging up should come to the town early from 9.30am. 

"The pit stop area is on the parking bays on Manchester Road next to the new boulevard."

Drivers need to note the changes to the road layout in the new, improved Nelson Town Centre. 

The following changes will come into effect after the celebration event on Saturday 20th August.

* The flow of traffic at the top of Carr Road has changed direction.  Drivers can no longer turn right from Carr Road into the car park.  They may turn left or go straight forward.

* At the Manchester Road junction going towards the town centre, drivers can now drive straight forward in to the town centre.

Hanna added: "A huge thank you to our cube sponsors - your support has helped us to create an open space which visitors to the town will enjoy for many years to come!"

The sponsors are:

• Nelson Town Council (sponsored 3 cubes)
• Nelson Area Committee sponsored a cube dedicated to entertainer Jack Ingham
• Mrs Boothman
• Dee McInnes
• James Wood
• Julie Lyle
• Lighting and Illumination Technology Experience
• Hardscape.