THE birthplace of the Co-operative movement could be in line for an exciting future thanks to lottery cash.

The Heritage Lottery Fund has earmarked almost £1.45M to develop the Rochdale Pioneers’ Museum in Toad Lane and the National Co-operative Archive in Manchester.

The ambitious project entitled ‘Rochdale: renewing our co-operative heritage, developing the archive and learning experiences’, cleared its first hurdle this week.

A £136,700 development grant was awarded to help progress the plans, which will secure the full grant if approved.

The proposals include the development of a new education and meeting space, as well as providing better access to the museum.

It is hoped that the project will ensure that the story of the Rochdale Pioneers – who opened their first store in Toad Lane in 1844 – is secured for future generations.

Stephen Yeo, the chairman of the Co-operative Heritage Trust, described the announcement as a vital step towards securing the long-term future of the archive and museum.

The plans were also backed by Rochdale MP Paul Rowen, who hopes that the revamp will attract more tourists. He said: "I would like to congratulate Dorothy Greaves and the team at the museum.

"This is great news that I am sure will be welcomed by everyone in Rochdale as the museum needs a revamp after being opened in its current form for nearly 30 years."

Sara Hilton, the head of the Heritage Lottery Fund in the North West, added: "Rochdale was the birthplace of the Co-operative movement and we are proud to support this scheme that celebrates its significance.

"Our grant will help safeguard a truly unique collection and bring to life the treasure trove of pioneering social history it captures."

The Rochdale Equitable Pioneers Society is credited with aiding the development of the co-operative movement which now involves more than 800 million people worldwide.

The National Co-operative Archive in Manchester holds collections relating to the thinkers that influenced the Rochdale Pioneers and to the development of the Co-operative movement.