Burnley trader is on the move to Colne (From Burnley and Pendle Citizen)

Burnley trader is on the move to Colne

10:00pm Wednesday 16th January 2013 in News By Peter Magill, Chief reporter

Carrie-Ann Kay of Artisan

SUPPORTERS of one of Burnley’s main shopping streets, backed by Portas Pilot cash, are welcoming a new arrival – but losing a well-known trader.

Just as Artisan, the vintage store in Standish Street, announces it will be moving to Colne, a fledgling gallery is taking root just yards away.

Artea House, a showcase for local artists, is the latest addition to the parade, which was awarded £10,000 from the Portas Pilot scheme.

Handicraft classes and tea and cakes are on offer at the new arrival — in an echo of Artisan’s cafe offering.

Artisan owner Carrie-Ann Kay, on the shop’s Facebook site, said that she was originally considering closing down Artisan and converting it into an online-only trader.

Plans had been been put in place for a closing-down sale, ahead of an anticipated January 31 shutdown.

But it has now been confirmed that a lease has been taken out on studios at the Northern Life Centre in Sun Street, Colne.

“We’re thinking March 1 for a super amazing massive launch party and open mic night,” said Carrie, who had been open in Standish Street for around two-and-a-half years.

“We've been offered a bigger location, cheaper and with much more prospects than Standish Street.

“It's such a shame to leave Burnley but with every other shop a pound shop, it's fallen to its knees. If I didn't own a shop on Standish Street, I would never go to shop there.

“There's some lovely unique places on there but Colne has many more businesses that fit our vintage ethos.” She also owns the fashion label Rene K and sent off an iconic designer dress to Kate Middleton, at the suggestion of Burnley MP Gordon Birtwistle.

Town centre development chiefs are considering a number of options on how to spend the Portas cash and promote Standish Street, which is also home to a herbalist’s and home brew store.