Lancashire & Yorkshire Bank
The Lancashire & Yorkshire Bank is an iconic building and landmark in the town centre of Bacup. Therefore it makes perfect sense for the purchase and evolution of the building to be a landmark moment for Bacup’s future! What was previously a bank will now be a central hub for businesses and creatives and a place for future generations to use!
For Bacup’s community, restoring the L&Y bank isn’t just about making way for a new coworking space (of course, that’s a wonderful benefit). It represents the history of Bacup, and its restoration is a clear indication of Valley Heritage’s confidence in a bright and positive future in the town. The building itself is instantly recognisable and much loved thanks to its Scottish Baronial style, a corner turret, four Harry Potter-esque gargoyles, three shields and two lions. All of which create a feeling of cultural and historical importance for the area.
Now, the bank will play a vital role in a new chapter of Bacup’s history. Providing the space and facilities to help the next generation (and those after) enjoy fantastic professional growth and give back to the community that supports them!
“In the 19th century, when building banks, the architecture was high quality and the design of the building was all about trying to engender a sense of confidence, and that is appropriate to what we are doing today.”
Stephen Anderson, Valley Heritage chairman
History of Lancashire & Yorkshire Bank
The Lancashire & Yorkshire Bank opened in 1878, which is why it’s considered to be such an important landmark in Bacup. And, of course, why it features incredible architecture reminiscent of an iconic period in history. A bit later on, it became part of Martins Bank and then Barclays, for which it remained as a fully operational bank until 1970. From here, it experienced several facelifts and has been used by businesses such as an Indian restaurant.
However, a lack of usage, interest, and funding has seen the building experience some wear and tear in recent years. As a Grade II building of national importance, we simply could not stand back and let it degrade and forever lose its character. In November 2019, it was purchased by Valley Heritage, and so began the journey to restore the bank and regenerate the town centre.
To us, it’s not just a building. It’s a symbol of a bright and exciting future for Bacup. A town centre where the culture is vibrant, there’s warmth within the community, and businesses & creatives have a space to grow.
Do you want to find out more about The Alliance at Lancashire & Yorkshire Bank? Learn more by visiting our Services and Alliance Shared Working Space pages.
Get in touch
- 18-20 Market Street,
Bacup,
Rossendale,
Lancashire
OL13 8EZ
