In a significant development for the Blackburn area, Blackburn with Darwen Council has submitted a planning application to demolish the long-vacant and boarded-up Blackamoor Inn located on Roman Road in Lower Darwen. This crucial step is part of a broader effort to improve the local infrastructure, enhance community accessibility, and pave the way for new housing initiatives. The proposal aims to not only demolish the dilapidated structure but also to upgrade the surrounding area by improving the junction with Stopes Brow and upgrading the sidewalk at this intersection.
The Blackamoor Inn, once a lively hub for locals, has been unoccupied since 2019, progressively deteriorating and becoming an eyesore within the community. The council believes that taking down this building will greatly benefit the neighborhood, as it will help revitalize the area and facilitate the development of housing. The council, which owns the property, is looking to repurpose the car park associated with the inn as part of a new housing scheme, aligning with their goals of both community enhancement and increased housing availability in Blackburn.
In the context of wider urban development, the site is strategically located near the newly constructed Issa Way, a significant thoroughfare funded by the billionaire business brothers Mohsin and Zuber Issa, which connects Blackamoor Road to Roman Road. The new highway represents an investment into the region’s infrastructure, and its proximity to the inn underscores the importance of improving and modernizing surrounding areas.
Earlier this year, the council’s executive board green-lighted the demolition of the Blackamoor Inn after it served as interim accommodation for a civil engineering contractor engaged in the Growth Deal 3 highways initiative. This move aligned with the land assembly plans for future housing projects south of the new Issa Way route. As the local authority continues to evolve its strategies to support community growth, the demolition of structures like the Blackamoor Inn is vital for clearing the way for new developments.
A detailed supporting statement submitted along with the demolition application outlines the council’s vision for the site’s future. The document emphasizes not just the physical removal of the building, but also highlights intentions to perform landscaping on the site, including widening the pavement along Stopes Brow. These enhancements aim to bring positive benefits to the local community, offering improved pedestrian circulation around the junction while enhancing visibility for road users.
The Blackamoor Inn is characterized as a two-storey masonry structure complete with a basement and a pitched slate roof, reflective of its original style from times when such establishments were common throughout the region. However, as the years passed and the pub fell into disuse, it became clear that the cost of refurbishing the building would outweigh any potential benefits. Instead, the council envisions a clean slate that will allow for better urban planning and further economic development.
The proposal entails not only the complete demolition of the inn but also a comprehensive plan to infill the basement area with hardcore material. This strategy is designed to ensure the site is left clear of all debris and rubble, maintaining a safe and tidy space as the community transitions toward future developments.
Once demolition is complete, the council plans to initiate landscaping works to reinforce the upgraded footpath on Stopes Brow. By creating a more accessible and pedestrian-friendly environment, the council hopes to encourage local foot traffic, facilitate commerce, and foster a sense of community pride. The improvements will also include soft landscaping that can blend harmoniously with the existing flora, contributing to the aesthetic appeal of the area.
To ensure the safety and security of the site, the local authority plans to erect temporary hoarding around the property. This measure will restrict unauthorized access during the period between the completion of the demolition activities and the start of the landscaping and renovation efforts. By taking proactive steps, the council demonstrates its commitment to maintaining public safety while construction is underway.
As the planning process unfolds, borough planners will meticulously consider the application, assessing the environmental impacts, the benefits to the community, and how the plan aligns with broader urban development goals in Blackburn. This project is not merely an isolated initiative; it is part of a larger framework aimed at revitalizing areas that have seen decline, improving infrastructure, and ultimately enhancing the quality of life for residents.
The community’s response to the demolition plans has generally been positive, reflecting a shared desire for progress and renewal. Many residents have expressed hope that with the removal of the Blackamoor Inn, the neighborhood can witness a transformation that aligns with modern standards and meets the needs of contemporary society. The push for new housing developments in the area is particularly timely, given the increasing demand for residential properties throughout Blackburn.
Moreover, the emphasis on enhancing public spaces is crucial in fostering a sense of community belonging. Improved walkways, safer intersections, and aesthetically pleasing landscapes not only promote pedestrian safety but also encourage social interactions among residents. By investing in public infrastructure, Blackburn with Darwen Council is making a statement about its priorities: fostering a vibrant community that accommodates both current needs and future growth.
While demolition and construction can often be met with hesitation, this initiative is rooted in a thoughtful approach to urban development. By focusing on the long-term benefits of removing obsolete structures, the council is committing to a vision of Blackburn that embraces progress. This vision recognizes that, while heritage is important, adaptation and revitalization are equally necessary to ensure that communities thrive.
The journey from proposal to realization will involve various stakeholders, including local businesses, residents, and planning officials. Engaging with these groups is vital to ensuring that the redevelopment reflects the wishes and needs of the community, thereby reinforcing a spirit of collaboration. Public forums and discussions may be held to garner feedback, educate the public about the benefits of the project, and facilitate dialogue regarding future plans for the area.
As progress continues, residents and local officials alike will be keeping a close eye on developments regarding the Blackamoor Inn site. The outcome of this planning application has the potential to set a precedent for future projects in Blackburn, paving the way for similar initiatives that aim to breathe new life into forgotten corners of the town.
In conclusion, the submission of the planning application to demolish the Blackamoor Inn marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of Blackburn’s urban landscape. The initiative reflects a broader commitment by Blackburn with Darwen Council to enhance the community through careful planning, development, and engagement with residents. By transforming this once-iconic pub site into a space that supports new housing and improves local infrastructure, the council is taking meaningful steps toward creating a thriving environment for future generations. With a focus on accessibility, safety, and community pride, the potential revitalization of the former Blackamoor Inn site serves as a hopeful sign for Blackburn’s continued growth and renewal.