Work begins on new Darwen THI scheme on Bolton Road

The restoration of another building in Darwen’s conservation area has begun.

The Darwen Town Centre Townscape Heritage Initiative comprises of a £2m Common Fund provided by Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council and Heritage Lottery Fund.

Grants are provided towards property and environmental improvements within a designated area of the town centre.

The new scheme, at 17-21 Bolton Road, includes the reinstatement of architectural detail and repairs and improvements to the shopfronts, doors, windows and vacant floorspace.

The upper floor and basement will be used for commercial use with the ground floor taken up by a take away and taxi office.

This block of properties, formerly occupied by a newsagents and taxi office, is undergoing the substantial improvements with the support of £132,244 grant aid through the Townscape Heritage Initiative.

The works are expected to be completed by September 2010.

Councillor Alan Cottam, Executive Member for Regeneration and Environment, said: “The Darwen THI scheme seeks to reinvigorate historic buildings in Darwen that are run down and losing their original character through the removal of architectural detail and alterations.

It is great to see another of Darwen’s historic buildings being brought back to life. They all play an important part in the unique nature of the town.”

THI projects are already underway at several other sites in Darwen, including: the Town Hall, Holker House, 25 Bolton Road and 15 Bridge Street.

Others are due to commence shortly at: 3 Foundry Street, 51-53 Railway Road, Belgrave Chapel, Former Burton Building ground floor pharmacy unit at 29-31 Market Street and 46 Railway Road.

Sara Hilton, Head of Heritage Lottery Fund North West, said: “The beginning of new conservation work shows that real progress is being made here in Darwen. The THI scheme is breathing new life into the built heritage of Darwen, revitalising the historic centre of the town. This will create long-lasting benefits for local people and for many generations to come.”