THE Prince of Wales once described the Weavers’ Triangle as “stunning” and “Burnley’s sleeping giant”.

But it’s a sleeping giant no more.

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An exciting new chapter in Burnley’s past, present and future is well under way with major developments taking place to transform the unique conservation area.

And Nelson-based construction giant Barnfield is helping breathe new life into the former cotton heartland which drove the industrial revolution.

The £100million On the Banks project is one of the largest heritage-led regeneration schemes under way in the UK.

Its vision is to be the rural equivalent of the successful city centre developments such as MediaCityUK and Spinningfields, creating a vibrant and unique ‘destination’ for business, living, leisure and education.

Historic buildings that sit along the Leeds-Liverpool Canal are being restored – with a modern 21st century twist.

Gareth Smith, Barnfield project director and head of regeneration, said: “Barnfield is immensely proud to be part of the transformation of this historic landmark site and to be developing a dynamic area for the future.

“We are excited about doing this alongside the new infrastructure developments such as Todmorden Curve, opening up a direct rail link to Manchester by the end of 2014, and the renovation of the Manchester Road Rail-way Station adjacent to On The Banks, providing superb access to On The Banks from across the North West. We are proud to have completed the stunning refurbishment of Victoria Mill for the location of Lancashire’s first University Technical College (UTC), a £10million project.”

The UTC opened in August last year, offering 14 to 19 year olds training in engineering or construction.

Daniel Jackson, associate at planning consultant Indigo Planning for the partnership, said: “On The Banks has secured its future with a mix of commercial, education and leisure uses and restored its historic buildings.

“But more importantly it is bringing investment and opportunity back into the town.”