Student’s plans turn cotton mill into community hub

18 June 2018

Vision to breathe new life into Coppull Mill

A former cotton mill in Lancashire could become a new community hub, should a University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) student get her way.

22-year-old Pashe Taylor, from Coppull, has drawn up plans for Coppull Mill as part of her studies for a degree in interior design.

While the bottom floors of the grade II listed building, which opened in 1906, are already occupied by businesses, the top floor remains unused. For Pashe, it’s an opportunity to breathe new life into the space and create a place for local people and community groups to come together.

Pashe said: “Lots of buildings have closed in Coppull in recent years, and I think it’s important to protect heritage and acknowledge history, while ensuring there are still spaces for the community to get together. The plans include areas for people to learn about the history of Coppull and a craft workshop, as well as networking spaces to support local businesses.

"I think it’s important to protect heritage and acknowledge history, while ensuring there are still spaces for the community to get together."

“I mainly studied Humanities subjects at college but I realised it wasn’t what I wanted to do. I’ve always been quite creative, there are builders in my family and I enjoy making home furnishings such as headboards and bedside tables. I decided to study at UCLan because it felt like the right fit and had everything I needed.”

The former Runshaw College student held down a part-time job at an ice cream parlour throughout her studies, in addition to renovating her home.

It wasn’t an easy journey for Pashe, who lost a childhood friend to suicide last year. “It makes you remember to live in the moment, to not get too caught up in stress and enjoy what you’re doing.

“After graduation I’m going to return to UCLan to do an Interior Design MA and get as much experience as possible before applying for jobs in the industry.”

Pashe’s designs will be on display at UCLan’s Preston campus from 15-22 June as part of the Lancashire Arts Festival Degree Show.