The Fleece Inn, a beloved landmark in the heart of Blackburn, is set to be demolished after a devastating fire caused by a suspected arson attack in 2022. The news has sent shockwaves through the community, with many residents and locals expressing their sadness and disappointment at the loss of this iconic building.
The Fleece Inn, located on Penny Street, has been a staple of the town’s social scene for generations. The building, which dates back to the Victorian era, has played host to countless weddings, birthday parties, and other celebrations. Its rich history and charm have made it a beloved institution in the community. Many people have fond memories of the Fleece Inn, whether it was a night out with friends, a family gathering, or a special occasion. The building’s unique character and atmosphere have made it a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.
However, the building’s fate was sealed when a fire broke out in February 2022, causing extensive internal damage. Despite efforts to repair the damage, the cost of restoration was deemed too high, and the council has made the difficult decision to demolish the building. The fire, which was treated as suspected arson by the police, has left the building in a state of disrepair, making it impossible to restore it to its former glory.
The demolition of the Fleece Inn is part of a larger plan to transform the town centre, with the aim of creating a vibrant and sustainable hub for the community. The £250million Blackburn Town Centre masterplan, which was launched in 2021, aims to create 1,000 new jobs and attract new businesses to the area. The plan also involves the redevelopment of the Penny Street and Starkie Street car parks, which will be used as development land for the 10-year scheme.
The council is currently exploring options for the site, including using it for a skills campus, but no final decisions have been made. The demolition of the Fleece Inn is a significant loss for the community, but it also presents an opportunity for the council and local stakeholders to work together to create a vibrant and sustainable future for the town centre.
The Fleece Inn is not the only historic building in the area to be demolished in recent years. Thwaites, the local brewery, moved its operations to Mellor Brook in 2018, and the building was subsequently demolished. The Stables, which was once home to Thwaites’ famous dray horses, was also demolished in 2019. The site of the former Daniels bar, which was used as Thwaites’ training centre, is also set to be redeveloped. Plans to turn the building into a new Morrisons supermarket were scrapped earlier this year, and the site is now being marketed as a potential development opportunity.
Marks and Spencer were also offered the site, but they have opted to remain at their current location in Frontier Park. The council is currently exploring options for the site, including using it for a skills campus. The demolition of the Fleece Inn and other historic buildings in the area has raised concerns about the loss of the town’s heritage and character. However, the council is committed to preserving the town’s history and is working to incorporate elements of the Fleece Inn’s history and architecture into any new development plans.
The community will be watching with interest as the council moves forward with its plans for the town centre. While the loss of the Fleece Inn is a significant blow, it is hoped that the new developments will bring new life and energy to the area, and help to preserve the town’s rich history and heritage. The council is committed to engaging with the community throughout the development process, and is encouraging residents to share their thoughts and ideas about the future of the town centre.
The demolition of the Fleece Inn is a reminder of the importance of preserving our town’s heritage and character. The building may be gone, but its legacy will live on in the memories of those who visited and the community that it served. The council’s commitment to preserving the town’s history and incorporating elements of the Fleece Inn’s history and architecture into new development plans is a positive step forward.
The Fleece Inn’s story is a reminder of the importance of community and the impact that a single building can have on a town’s identity. The building may be gone, but its memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew it. The community will continue to rally around the council’s plans for the town centre, and will work together to create a vibrant and sustainable future for the town.