A planning application aimed at converting the former educational premises located on Shear Brow in Blackburn has been withdrawn, marking a significant victory for local residents who had previously expressed their concerns over potential disruptions caused by the proposed use of the venue for celebrations and events. This development follows a series of enforcement actions taken by Blackburn with Darwen Council, which had sought to prevent unauthorized functions from occurring at the site, owned by the Issa Foundation and operated by Inara Events Ltd.
The issue came to a head in August when the local council served a ‘Temporary Stop Notice’ on the building’s owners and operators, prompting immediate scrutiny regarding the venue’s use. Residents in the vicinity raised alarms about excessive noise stemming from events in the hall, as well as dangerous parking situations that resulted from the influx of visitors attending such gatherings. The building, which formerly housed St. Mary’s College, had closed its educational services in 2022, and local officials discovered that it was now being used for purposes that were not sanctioned by the necessary planning permissions.
In response to the council’s enforcement actions, Inara Events Ltd. submitted a planning application in September, seeking to regularize the usage of the college facilities. This application outlined plans to convert the building’s assembly and lecture halls into a private hire function hall, which would include two distinct rooms. The proposal, however, was met with significant backlash from the community. Residents concerned about noise, traffic issues, and the overall impact of such events on their quality of life mobilized quickly.
To express their opposition, more than 100 people attended a public meeting held at Revidge Fold Church. At this gathering, local residents voiced their concerns collectively, emphasizing the importance of preserving the tranquility of their neighborhood. The meeting served as an outlet for frustration and apprehension, culminating in the submission of three petitions opposing the planning application, totaling 185 signatures. This grassroots activism illustrated the strong community sentiment against the proposed changes, highlighting the residents’ desire to maintain a peaceful living environment.
After considerable local opposition and the decision to withdraw the planning application, Inara Events Ltd announced that it would explore alternative proposals for the reuse of the former college site. This alternative direction is said to be aimed at providing key benefits for the local community, a reassuring promise for residents who were deeply concerned about the initial application.
Naz Shah, representing Urban Future Planning Consultancy Ltd, the agent acting on behalf of Inara Events Ltd, issued a statement acknowledging the proactive engagement of the council in addressing community concerns. Shah noted that various amendments were made to the original proposal with the intention of making the conversion more acceptable. However, the ultimate choice to withdraw the planning application reflects a recognition of the overwhelming local opposition.
Blackburn with Darwen Council echoed these sentiments in their own communications regarding the situation. They offered a recap of the enforcement actions initiated against the venue. In their statement, council officials reiterated that the former St. Mary’s College building had been operating outside the bounds of its authorized use, drawing numerous complaints from the neighborhood. The Temporary Stop Notice, along with a Community Protection Notice Warning letter issued to Inara Events Ltd, underscored the seriousness of the situation and the council’s commitment to protecting the residents’ interests.
Council representatives made it clear that a planning application was necessary to evaluate any change of use; however, the withdrawal of the request now means the site will not be available for functions or celebration events as initially proposed. This outcome is viewed positively by residents, who felt their voices had been heard.
One of the key figures in the organization of the protest meeting, Sabir Esa, shared his thoughts on the matter. “Residents are absolutely delighted,” he remarked, highlighting the effective mobilization of community concerns which led to this result. The successful pushback against the planning application illustrates the power of organized community action in influencing local governance and planning decisions.
As residents await news of what Inara Events Ltd. might propose next, there remains a generally optimistic atmosphere. The focus has shifted to ensuring that any future plans respect the needs and desires of the local community, emphasizing a collaborative approach to neighborhood development that prioritizes the voices of its constituents.
The Issa Foundation, known for its various initiatives and community-focused projects, has been approached for commentary but has yet to respond to inquiries regarding this situation. Local stakeholders are keen to see how the foundation will navigate the concerns expressed by the Blackburn community moving forward.
Overall, the withdrawal of the planning application stands as a testament to the significance of community engagement in the local democratic process. Residents of Blackburn demonstrated that they are vigilant guardians of their neighborhood, prepared to come together to protect the integrity of their living space. This instance highlights the crucial relationship between local councils and their constituents, illustrating how consultation and dialogue can lead to decisions that reflect the desires and needs of the community.
As this situation continues to evolve, the attention will remain on not only how Inara Events Ltd. reapproaches the potential use of the college site but also how it can effectively collaborate with the community to propose solutions that are both innovative and conducive to the area’s character. Local governance must walk the fine line between fostering development and maintaining community standards, an increasingly complex challenge in today’s rapidly changing urban landscapes.
The outcome of this incident serves as both an important lesson and a hopeful sign for other localities experiencing similar challenges as they work to find paths towards development that is both beneficial and harmonious with the established community. Moving forward, it will be essential for all parties involved to prioritize open communication channels, ensuring that the hopes and concerns of community members are at the forefront of any developmental initiatives undertaken in the future. As residents continue to voice their perspectives, the promise of a more engaged, community-led approach to planning may very well shape the trajectory of Blackburn’s development in the months and years ahead.