The Kirkham Renaissance project will see refurbishment to buildings to enhance the character and appearance of the town centre in a bid to attract private sector investment and new custom.

The £210,000 scheme has been jointly funded by Fylde Borough Council, Lancashire County Council and co-ordinated by Kirkham and Wesham Business Group.

In the making since early last year, some £100,000 of the cash is still thought to be available which Fylde Borough are encouraging traders to bid for as they look to relaunch the scheme in the coming weeks.

Elaine Silverwood, Chairman of Kirkham and Wesham Business Group, said: "We have been working very hard at this and we have managed to work with Lancashire County Developments Ltd and Fylde Borough to come up with something which we think will be a real boost for Kirkham.The whole town will look smarter, more attractive and worthy of its market town market town status."

As the main historic market town in the Fylde, Kirkham was selected for an economic 'health check' in 2007 resulting in the production of an Urban Design Study for the town centre and a series of recommendations suggesting a series or projects and actions.

Also included in the revamp will be structural repairs, re-roofing, re-pointing, replacing unsympathetic windows with traditional styles, lead work and repairs to stonework.

Paul Drinnan, Head of Regeneration at Fylde Borough Council said: "Our aim is to make sure Kirkham town centre remains a vibrant retail destination based on its history, heritage and location.

"The extensive building refurbishment programme should help as a catalyst for the renaissance of the town."