Wayne Hemingway, a renowned designer and placemaker, engaged with business and community leaders in Rossendale on Friday, 9th October, to discuss strategies for enhancing the borough’s unique character and attracting future investments.
Hemingway, who co-founded the fashion label Red or Dead and currently operates the multi-disciplinary design studio HemingwayDesign, served as the keynote speaker at the ‘Invest in Rossendale’ event hosted by Rossendale Borough Council. His presentation centred on the theme of ‘place leadership during times of change,’ drawing from his extensive experience working with various towns and communities across the UK. He emphasised the importance of identity, creativity, and community in attracting people, businesses, and investment.
The event attracted individuals with a vested interest in Rossendale’s future, including James Wrigley from Pioneer Market Group, the new operator of Rawtenstall Market, which is undergoing a £5 million transformation. Wrigley participated in a panel discussion regarding the opportunities for the town and the role of investment in the ongoing development of the town centre.
This gathering coincides with ongoing significant investment and regeneration initiatives throughout Rossendale. Notably, the Pride in Place programme is advancing projects in Crawshawbooth, Rawtenstall, and Waterfoot. Additionally, the ‘Make Your Move’ business activation programme has garnered approximately 30 expressions of interest, with businesses now moving towards full applications.
Councillor Alyson Barnes, Leader of Rossendale Borough Council, remarked, “Invest in Rossendale brings together people who have a real stake in the future of our area and gives us an opportunity to look beyond the immediate challenges we face and think about what comes next.” She added, “There is already significant investment taking place across our communities, and there is real ambition among our businesses and partners. Today’s event was about connecting those things and making the most of the opportunities ahead.”
Rob Huntington, Chief Executive of Rossendale Borough Council, stated, “There is a lot happening across Rossendale, and bringing people together like this gives us an opportunity to connect the investment already taking place with the businesses and organisations who know the borough best.” He highlighted the relevance of Hemingway’s message about understanding what makes a place distinctive, saying, “We have a strong sense of character and identity, great connections to Greater Manchester and town centres that continue to evolve and attract visitors from across the region. Our opportunity is to build on those strengths while creating the conditions for businesses to grow and new investment to come forward.”
