A new digital hub and co-working space at the Old Milk Depot has had plans approved by Rossendale Borough Council.

The project in Cloughfold, Rawtenstall, reflects priorities set out in the ‘Valley Plan’ to strengthen the local economy, support digital innovation, and improve opportunities for both residents and businesses.

It forms part of the Council’s wider commitment to supporting local jobs, skills and business growth through practical, place-based regeneration.

Approved by the Council’s Cabinet on May 14, the Council has allocated £60,000 of Local Regeneration Funding to Plus24 Marketing Limited to convert the ground floor of the building into a collaborative hub for digital innovation, skills development, and networking.

Councillor Nick Harris, Lead Member for Regeneration, said: “This project reflects the priorities set out in our Valley Plan and supports out ambition to grow Rossendale’s economy.

“The hub will give residents better access to digital skills, and provide local businesses with the space they need to collaborate, innovate and expand.

“It also supports inclusive growth, helping young people and residents develop digital skills, supporting people into work or into better-paid roles, and ensuring regeneration benefits local communities.

“The work already carried out with Northern Reach shows there is a clear demand for this type of space, and this funding allows us to pilot a practical, cost-effective solution.”

This investment is designed to help people work, train, and build businesses locally, reducing the need for residents to travel outside the valley for digital opportunities.

This decision builds on two years of work delivered in partnership with Northern Reach to bring together Rossendale’s digital business community, which now has more than 50 members.

Through roundtables and engagement sessions, local businesses have highlighted the need for a shared space, access to digital skills support and room to grow within Rossendale.

Rawtenstall was identified as the preferred location due to its connectivity and proximity to Greater Manchester.

The funding will support building works, equipment and the appointment of an experienced digital partner to help establish and manage the hub.

Plus24 Marketing Limited will work with the partner to develop the space into a centre for digital innovation, collaboration and enterprise.

The project aims to retain local talent, strengthen the borough’s digital economy and support a more resilient future for Rossendale’s towns.