Opinions sought on £20m town investment plan

Martin Kelly said the council was committed to "making the most" of new funding

Darwen residents are being asked for their views on how £20m of government money should be spent.

There will be three in-person events to consult on the plan, which will see the town benefit from a new 10-year programme as part of the government’s Levelling Up plans.

To help inform the board’s proposals, which must be submitted to Whitehall, residents have been invited to give their opinion on how the money should be spent to improve the area.

This will include a chance to offer feedback online and in-person at a range of events.

'Get this right'

Blackburn with Darwen Council’s Martin Kelly said there will be three in-person events: a two-hour bookable workshop, from 18.30 BST on 13 June, at Darwen Cricket Club, and two drop-in sessions, from 09:00-16:30 BST on 14 and 15 June, in Darwen Market Hall.

“We are determined to get this right for the town," said Mr Kelly.

“We want to make the most of this new funding, and spend it on making changes to things that really matter to residents, community groups and businesses.

“The board is a mix of members who all have strong links to the town, but we also want our work to be informed by the views of people who are proud to call Darwen home.

“As well as the events, we’ll be working with groups of younger people, older people and reaching out to those members of the community who may not typically take part in something like this," he added.

The long-term plan is in addition to the Darwen Town Deal worth more than £100m.