Support for our City Bid

"Blackburn is a wonderful community. I came here nearly 50 years ago to start work as a youth & community worker.  I was a local councillor for 25 years. We transformed our schools, colleges, community facilities for all.

As Mayor & Mayoress 1989/90 we had the humbling privilege to get know our diverse communities so well. We spent time with citizens working in the private, public & voluntary 3rd sector, creating wealth, delivering the best quality services, supporting folk who need a little extra help of one sort or the other.

Achieving City status would recognise all of our efforts & give an extra boost to our continued sense of building our communities."

“I’m supporting the city bid because as one of the Youth MP’s for Blackburn I get to see on a daily basis the impact that each member of the community has on each other in the most positive way and the strength and unity of Blackburn as a whole.

You get to see how everyone impacts on each other in the most positive ways and it really means you feel that sense of community.”

"Blackburn has been my home for 56 years and you don’t live in one place for that long unless you have a deep connection. It has changed a lot over that time but the character of the people has stayed the same. There are so many other reasons why Blackburn should be recognised as a city - it's culture, history and sporting tradition. That’s why I’m #BackingBlackburn"

"Blackburn has its own distinctive history in Britain and around the world. It has a manufacturing heritage. The town also has its own distinctive, diverse make-up too. It has got a cathedral - but there are 18 cities around the UK that don’t. I regularly visit Blackburn for the Festival of Making and throughout the year. When you look at the other towns that have been made cities, like Stoke and Wolverhampton, then why should Blackburn not be?"

‘’Blackburn was at the centre of the first textiles revolution which transformed Britain in the 18th century, and with its unique blend of can-do spirit and a legacy of innovation it is uniquely positioned to play a pivotal role in a new textiles revolution for the 21st century, one focused this time on sustaining and regenerating both our natural world and local communities.’’

“It makes me really happy to see Blackburn punching above its weight culturally.

“The recent British Textile Biennial made me proud to be from Blackburn, I loved seeing it breathe new life into the old cinema. It was also wonderful to witness such a diverse range of audiences going into our museum.

“City status could help bring much needed profile and investment to Blackburn - and I want that for my hometown.”

"I write in respect of Blackburn with Darwen’s recent announcement that Blackburn is to bid for city status as part of HM the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebration in 2022, and to offer my support for this bid.

My own association with Blackburn goes back almost fifty years, and such is the love I have for the town that I have devoted over thirty years to serving the community – initially as a Borough Councillor, then as Council Leader, and more recently as the Town’s MP.

I have a passionate commitment to the town and I am very much in support of measures that will ensure the town’s national status reflects the important role it plays locally, regionally and nationally.

I know that the Borough Council are pulling together an excellent bid, which will set out the many great attributes that Blackburn has – both through its major historic contribution to our nation and with its current energy and the way everyone involved with the place shows a drive and ambition to always be the best.

The Council will, no doubt set out in detail, the many features of Blackburn that make it great, and so I do not seek to repeat those here.  I do, though think it worth setting out a few key points which I think warrant particular note to those considering the various bids and with responsibility for making final recommendations.

• Blackburn Cathedral and the headquarters of the Blackburn Church of England Diocese.  A church was established in Blackburn long before the Norman conquest of England and by not long after 1066 formed a large parish covering most of East Lancashire.  The Church became a Cathedral in 1926 – at the heart of a diocese that is now responsible for most of Lancashire stretches as far as Lancaster in the North.  It is common practice that the presence of a Cathedral is the basis for city status.
• Blackburn Rovers Football Club.  One of the oldest established professional football clubs in England, and with one of the most esteemed reputations.  Six times FA Cup winners (the only club ever to win the cup three years in a row (1884-1886) and the first northern team to feature in a final (1882).  Three times champions of the English League (1911-12, 1913-14 and 1994-95).  League Cup Winners (2003).
• A proud and notable industrial heritage.  From its exponential growth during the industrial revolution Blackburn has always played a leading role in industry.  At the turn of the last century more cotton cloth was produced in Blackburn than in any other town in the World – a mile a minute.  And as the cotton industry declined Blackburn did not rest on its laurels – instead diversifying into other industries.  Much of the development of the Compact Disk was pioneered in Blackburn and the area now boasts a diverse hi-tech industrial base as well as the more traditional heavy engineering.  Blackburn truly continues to be an industrial and economic powerhouse.
• The location of key global headquarters.  Blackburn’s Issa brothers maintain a major commitment to the area, basing the headquarters of its multi-billion pound service station empire in Blackburn – now with the ASDA group under its umbrella.
• The largest urban centre in East Lancashire.  With a population approaching 110,000 in a borough of 150,000 Blackburn is the largest urban centre in East/Pennine Lancashire, and is an employment and retail hub drawing in people from all of the neighbouring towns.
• Royal Blackburn Hospital, Headquarters of the East Lancashire Hospital Trust and the principal hospital serving the East Lancashire population of over half a million residents.
• Major political figures have represented the town.  Blackburn has always and continues to attract political figures who make a national impact – Blackburn’s first Labour MP, Philip Snowden, elected in 1906, went on to be Chancellor of the Exchequer; Barbara, later Baroness Castle represented the town for over 34 years, during which she played a key role in several Labour Governments; and my direct predecessor, Jack Straw held the roles of Home Secretary, Foreign Secretary and Lord Chancellor during his 36 years of office.
• Redevelopment.  A tour of Blackburn today, when compared to twenty years ago would show a transformation.  As has been widely publicised, Blackburn’s Council has faced major reductions in its core budget in recent years; yet the redevelopment of so many central sites belies the financial challenge and further serves to emphasise the determined, energetic and can do attitude of Blackburn and its people.  A new Cathedral Square, with city standard office provision, restaurants and bars and the first cathedral cloister built in this country for almost 500 years; a brand new state of the art bus station; a redeveloped Mall – one of the best performing in the country and part of Blackburn’s successful recent High Street of the Year award; Blackburn College and University Centre campus with tens of millions invested.  And out of town, major housing developments both in terms of affordable housing on brownfield sites and high end housing in the suburban areas are all contributing to a growth in population as the strong local jobs market once again drives migration into Blackburn from other parts of the country.

As I compile this list, I find myself with more and more examples of the greatness of Blackburn.  However, as I know that Blackburn with Darwen Council will be submitting far more detail I think it best for me to focus on the snippets set out here, just as a taster for why Blackburn truly deserves city status.

I have also been delighted to see this week, that the Members for my neighbouring constituencies, Nigel Evans in Ribble Valley, Sara Britcliffe in Hyndburn and Jake Berry in Rossendale and Darwen, have all endorsed the bid, both acknowledging the fact that Blackburn deserves city status but noting the positive knock on effect this will have on the wider East Lancashire community.

And as I conclude I accept that Blackburn is not perfect.  I’ve highlighted on numerous occasions the deprivation that some of our communities suffer, and I take it as my responsibility to campaign for those communities.  But when we look at all of the greatest cities in England – Manchester, Liverpool, London – we sadly see incidences of deprivation there too.  What I do know, however, is that to achieve city status would be a huge positive step for Blackburn and its ability to attract investment and jobs and to help tackle the issues we face.

I support the city bid and very much hope that it is successful.  I should be very happy to meet with you to discuss this in more detail if you felt that helpful.

With all good wishes

Yours sincerely

Kate Hollern 

Graham has held a number of senior positions in local government and during that time was voted one of the most influential local government figures in the country by trade magazine Local Government Chronicle. He said:

“On behalf of Blackburn with Darwen’s CCG, I express our wholehearted support for Blackburn’s bid to be granted the prestige of City Status.

“It’s really important that we back a bid as it would bring a huge list of benefits from improving the economy to creating better quality and a wider range of jobs, to attracting more international students to the college and university to then also work in the health sector, which will in turn give us a better position both regionally and internationally.

“Blackburn has a compelling case which, I really believe would help to challenge issues of social mobility and address health inequalities in the area which, have of course been exacerbated by the pandemic as one of the worst hit areas in the country.

“As we recover, the impact that such a significant honour would have, would have a far-reaching global impact for future generations.”

‘’My mother's side of the family were all proud Blackburners. I was born and raised in Darwen and was educated in Blackburn (both secondary school and art college). Since graduating in the late 90s I have worked with adidas in various capacities.

My upbringing in the area has consistently been a source of inspiration and constantly informs my design work on the adidas Spezial range that I curate. A multitude of the products that I have created for this global sportswear giant use names that pay homage to Blackburn and its surrounding area.

One of the most historic and iconic footwear ranges in adidas's rich archive is the 'City Series' - a group of shoes named after key cities globally. In 2019 we created a new chapter in it with the adidas Blackburn SPZL trainer. There were many who commented that it perhaps shouldn't have been included as Blackburn does not officially have city status. The response to the shoes quickly silenced these comments (and raised a significant amount of money for Blackburn charity Nightsafe) when they sold out in minutes after people queued for 3 days to purchase them. This has made them one of the most sought after and collectible 'City Series' releases of all time. Perhaps including Blackburn in adidas's City Series was wishful thinking on my part (and I am biased) but I personally believed Blackburn to be worthy for inclusion in it regardless of the town never having been granted the honour of that city status officially. I suppose I was making a point as my parents were married in Blackburn's beautiful cathedral - an ingredient that I was told was essential to city status and furthermore I believe Blackburn to be deserving as it's history is colourful and rich. It was at the epicentre of textile manufacture during the industrial revolution (Gandhi visited in the 30s), it gave us one of the founding clubs in the football league and in the late 20th century became the hub of northern Acid House that led the dance music revolution.

Blackburn is a diverse and multicultural town and since the decline of the manufacturing industry has had its challenges but I believe that like it's southern counterparts in Manchester and Liverpool, culture will be crucial to its repurposing and regeneration. It already hosts the British Textile Biennial and the Festival of Making and in the past couple of years has attracted major exhibitions from global brands with the adidas 'Spezial' exhibition and the recent C.P. Company 'CINQUANTA' exhibition. Both of these global companies chose Blackburn over established cities and in doing so supported local charities to put something back into the place. These events also further bridged gaps by appealing to all the different communities that co-exist in the town. The seeds are being planted and I am not alone in my belief in its potential. The acknowledgment of its importance and significance through city status would massively add to the momentum that is steadily being built into the town for a new and exciting future.’’

‘’Blackburn has such incredible communities of creative and innovative people working hard to improve the present and change the future. We have visitors from across the north west coming to access the opportunities available in Blackburn. There is just so much going on and a phenomenal energy about the place! Blackburn is building tomorrow on solid historic foundations. That's why I believe Blackburn deserves city status in 2022.’’

‘’We all know that the best comedy comes from the North West, and the people of Blackburn have that combination of humour, warmth and resilience that represents the best of Britain. That’s why I’m #BackingBlackburn for city status in 2022. Plus we have the best football strip bar none. Arte et labour!’’

" I'm backing Blackburn because I had so many opportunities whilst growing up here and to see its recent development and growth is wonderful. It's a lively, creative place with a lot to offer - some of my best memories are playing gigs at local venues. It deserves to gain city status to carry on building its legacy!’’

Chair of BWD Unison Local Government Branch

"Unison BwD are supportive of the bid. Blackburn has a rich cultural history and has had an integral role in working people’s history. It has a unique identity to become a city. We believe a successful bid would be good for Blackburn and the surrounding areas including Darwen, which also has its own distinct identity and strong cultural history. We hope all our members get behind the bid.’’

‘’I was lucky enough to grow up in Blackburn, a town that shaped my attitude, which now allows me to work in some of the greatest cities in the world. I believe the prestige of becoming a city would provide even greater opportunities for generations to come and that at its core is what we all want. The chance for our kids to believe in and follow their dreams and city status makes this even more accessible for so many. Blackburn’s appreciation of diverse cultures, like every city I visit in the world, is why I believe it is a prime candidate for city status.’’

Director Deco Publique and National Festival of Making

“As the Festival Director of the National Festival of Making we have always felt welcomed with open arms by the people and communities who live and work in Blackburn. The support for the arts and creativity is exemplary with a forward thinking and visionary council placing value on what culture can do for a place.  Blackburn may not yet have the official title of 'City' but it acts and behaves just like, if not better, than its city counterparts and we look forward to the day when they are awarded the title that they rightfully deserve.”

"It is time for Blackburn to be recognised. A place proud of its heritage, culture, diversity, and regeneration. It’s somewhere I'm proud to live – gaining city status would be a massive boost for the local economy and give a sense of local pride.’’

Chief Executive Officer, The Wish Centre

"I have lived in Blackburn for over 41 years and over the decades I have seen the positive changes in the town as its grown and developed. I have attended school and college in Blackburn, had my children in Blackburn hospital and connected with people from different communities developing lasting friendships.

What I love about Blackburn is its multiculturalism and as a result of that its thriving community bringing a diverse range of businesses that everyone in the town benefits from. Blackburn also has a strong voluntary sector with hundreds of organisations offering a range of specialist support services to meet the needs of its residents.

Blackburn already has all the qualities of a thriving city it just needs the status and this is why I am #BackingBlackburn."

Director of Enterprise, Faculty of Culture and Creative Industries, University of Central Lancashire

“I am incredibly proud to have been born in Blackburn. It has always been at the forefront of innovation and creativity through its rich and diverse heritage of textiles and making. Events like the Textile Biennial draw people from all over the UK and the Cathedral serves as a creative and heritage hub, as well as a religious and community focus. The University of Central Lancashire based in Preston and Burnley work closely with Blackburn with Darwen Council and recently involved our students in the curatorship of an exhibition at Blackburn Museum to celebrate the life of one of its greatest advocates; George Dewhurst – The Radical. This collaboration opened up a great deal of potential for our young people and we are now in discussions about increasing partnership working. What strikes me most of all is the pride the town invokes and to become a city would be incredibly impactful to those who live in Blackburn and indeed Lancashire and boost the awareness and economic potential of this great and special Town.”

"I was lucky enough to play and work in Blackburn for 4 memorable years. The people are amazing and there is such a brilliant community - Blackburn truly deserves City status! That’s why I’m #BackingBlackburn."

Lancashire tourism superstar and tour guide

"As a Lancashire tourism superstar and award winning tour guide I conduct many tours in the county, one being the Blackburn heroes and villains walking tour.

This tour takes in Victoria cross winners, international bestselling authors, textile riots and the odd ghostly encounter.

Blackburn can be very proud of its history once being the hub of the textile industry, boasting lets cloth Great Britain before breakfast and the rest of the world afterwards.

Such a proud and rich History and richly deserving City status having one of the finest cathedrals in the red rose County. Excellent quality shopping, some of the finest parks and recreation grounds in the county.

Excellent locally produced award-winning ales. Many grade listed buildings like the fabulous King George’s hall and the beautiful Victorian Town hall and technical college buildings giving charm and flavour. Blackburn deserves city status, as it is already a city to be very proud of."

Former MP for Blackburn:

‘’We’ve got a vibrant town and it has been transformed in the last 15 to 20 years, and there really is so much going on. Employment is more buoyant, there are lots of cultural activities and a real sense of pride in the area from all across the community.

I think the case for Blackburn becoming a city is overwhelming to be honest. It is a real mark of recognition and is one that Blackburn truly deserves.’’

‘’I’ve lived in Lancashire for over 30 years and working at BBC Lancashire and the local theatres, I’ve met so many of the wonderful vibrant people of Blackburn. The friendliest people, who will do anything for you – brilliant NHS staff who have worked so hard during this horrible pandemic – city status would be a great way to thank them and give the people of Blackburn a well-deserved boost – there’s life in the old girl yet!’’

<!--

-->

‘’I arrived in Blackburn in December1970 as part of the launch team for BBC Radio Blackburn (now BBC Radio Lancashire) when the newest BBC local station chose the borough for its base.

We went on air on January 26th 1971 – and the BBC built a new home for the station in the town in 1988. Now based directly opposite the wonderful Cathedral.

I’ve lived here for almost 50 years, and my family all grew up and went to school here.

The town had just had a major makeover at the end of the 60’s with the initial build of a modern shopping centre. That now has had a £45 million redevelopment as “The Mall”, and her Majesty Queen Elizabeth came here to unveil a plaque in 2008. She’d also been here on her first Lancashire tour as Queen in 1955 – when the then thriving Mullard factory grabbed her attention.

Blackburn is proud to have an Olympic size Ice Arena opened by Christopher Dean and Jayne Torvill in 1991. But alongside the modern the town has the 100 year old King Georges Hall, which opened in October 1921. And along side that is the Grade II-listed Victoria Building dates back to 1888 - steeped in local heritage. Now part of Blackburn College and University Centre.

And you can’t talk about Blackburn without mentioning our Football team, Blackburn Rovers. The only town team winners of the Premiere league, in the 1994/5 season, a club dating back to 1875!

From the day I arrived here, it’s struck me as strange that the town wasn’t a City. It’s now a multi- cultural town & the borough of Blackburn with Darwen accommodates just short of 150 thousand – with almost half a million residents in the Blackburn postcode area.

Her Majesty returned to Blackburn 7 years ago to hand out Maundy Money at the Cathedral – one of few she hadn’t visited in her reign.

The streets outside our BBC building were packed with spectators!’’

"This October thousands of visitors from all over the country and beyond flocked to the British Textile Biennial in Blackburn, including representatives of major institutions and agencies based in London such as the British Council, Arts Council England and the Crafts Council, all of whom were unanimous in saying the exhibitions and installations were the best they had seen in years, anywhere.

The quality of the spaces that host BTB in Blackburn, such as the cathedral, the Cotton Exchange and the museum are of a scale and beauty that visitors often assume that it is a city. Giving it that status would add weight to our national and international profile and relationships which all help drive investment to the place. We pack a powerful cultural punch from a rich and diverse community and really deserve to be on that city stage."

Principal - Westholme School

"Blackburn has warmly welcomed me since I became Principal of its only independent school last year. Westholme School is proud to be woven into the history of this special town and generations of pupils have blossomed here. As we approach our centenary in 2023, we are reflecting on the rich heritage and success of our school, which is inextricably linked to Blackburn’s own inspirational story. Like Westholme, Blackburn treasures its traditions but is truly driving forward with innovation and embracing change. I have been incredibly impressed by the character of the people here, the very powerful sense of community, and the sheer aspiration of Blackburn. That is why we are #BackingBlackburn!"

English actor who has appeared in several TV series and TV films. On British television, Gunn is known for his role in Coronation Street as Brian Packham, and former Headmaster of Bessie Street School since 2010.

"I moved to Blackburn 22 years ago to start a family with Julie who is Blackburn born and bred and I am proud to say is a local councillor. The Council is aspirational for its residents and just like it’s history Blackburn’s future is bursting with creativity and talent and I fully support Blackburn’s bid for city status."

I arrived in Blackburn in December1970 as part of the launch team for BBC Radio Blackburn (now BBC Radio Lancashire) when the newest BBC local station chose the borough for its base.

We went on air on January 26^th 1971 – and the BBC built a new home for the station in the town in 1988. Now based directly opposite the wonderful Cathedral.

I’ve lived here for almost 50 years, and my family all grew up and went to school here.

The town had just had a major makeover at the end of the 60’s with the initial build of a modern shopping centre. That now has had a £45 million redevelopment as “The Mall”, and her Majesty Queen Elizabeth came here to unveil a plaque in 2008. She’d also been here on her first Lancashire tour as Queen in 1955 – when the then thriving Mullard factory grabbed her attention.

Blackburn is proud to have an Olympic size Ice Arena opened by Christopher Dean and Jayne Torvill in 1991. But alongside the modern the town has the 100 year old King Georges Hall, which opened in October 1921. And along side that is the Grade II-listed Victoria Building dates back to 1888 - steeped in local heritage. Now part of Blackburn College and University Centre

And you can’t talk about Blackburn without mentioning our Football team, Blackburn Rovers. The only town team winners of the Premiere league, in the 1994/5 season, a club dating back to 1875

From the day I arrived here, it’s struck me as strange that the town wasn’t a City. It’s now a multi- cultural town & the borough of Blackburn with Darwen accommodates just short of 150 thousand – with almost half a million residents in the Blackburn postcode area.

Her Majesty returned to Blackburn 7 years ago to hand out Maundy Money at the Cathedral; one of few she hadn’t visited in her reign. The streets outside our BBC building were packed with spectators!

BwD Running Mayor

“In 1998, aged 23 I moved to Blackburn with my girlfriend (now wife) and I knew no-one, literally no-one. Fast forward 23 years and I can reflect...

“I played in the Blackburn and Darwen combination league, I had my knee fixed twice (and a hernia) by the wonderful hospital, I had some memorable night outs in the town centre (I can remember a handful of them), had some amazing meals, watched my team get beat by The Rovers more times than I'd have liked, got married and had two beautiful girls and joined an incredibly inclusive running club but more than anything I've made lifelong friends and memories.

“A town (or city) is defined by its people, they are the fabric and the heartbeat of any place and the people of Blackburn and Darwen adopted me and made me feel welcome which I'll never forget.

“I might have grown up in Derbyshire but I became "a grown up" in Blackburn and Darwen. Thank you for having me.”

"I moved back to Blackburn from London five years ago, I love the place.

Going for city status is a big deal, it would be really cool.

I’ve toured round lots of towns and cities. For Blackburn to become a city, it would help us attract bigger and betters acts in the future, whether comedians like me, musicians, drama productions and so on.

Somewhere with such good eating places deserves to be a city!"

Blackburn Scouts Chairman

"Blackburn Scouts are proud to support Blackburns bid for city status and be part of #BackingBlackburn. Blackburn has a thriving voluntary youth work sector and city status will bring more opportunities for our young people now and in the future. We hope everyone in the town will get behind the bid."

Chair of Blackburn with Darwen Hive Business

“Blackburn, especially Blackburn’s business community has a long and proud tradition of punching above its weight.”

“As a home of the Industrial revolution and an area still steeped in manufacture and industry I cannot see a better way for the town to be honoured for it contribution to national society than being granted city status in 2022.”

“So on behalf of all Hive members, business leaders and entrepreneurs past, present and future, I fully endorse Blackburn’s City bid, and look forward to the City unlocking the full economic potential this opportunity will afford us.”

Blackburn Children’s University manager 

‘We’ve so many young people in our town and that creates a lot of positive energy and ambition, city status would be a great boost for the next generation. It will help to raise aspirations of our school pupils for generations to come."

"I’m proud to be supporting the 2022 bid for Blackburn to become a city. It’s where my wife and I started our family life together and both my girls were born in Blackburn hospital. We enjoyed it so much we decided to make it our Home.Having lived here for 28 years, i was brought here to play football and stayed here because of the people. "

Chairman, Blackburn Harriers & AC

"Blackburn Harriers & AC is one of the top athletic Clubs in the area, in no small part due to the foresight and investment by Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council headed by the CEO at the time – Graham Burgess. In supporting the development of Witton Park Arena, the Club alongside the Borough are able to provide some of the best facilities around for our schools, people of all ages within our communities in Blackburn, Darwen and the surrounding area to start upon and improve their athletic journey. Blackburn Harriers & AC are proud to be Backing Blackburn."

Leader of Blackburn with Darwen’s Conservative Party

Blackburn being awarded City Status would not only help to attract inward investment, it would send a clear message that this is a place of ambition, where we work to get the best for our residents and anyone who wants to do business here. It brings considerable long-term economic and social benefits including employment opportunities, skills development, and a renewed sense of confidence. It will help build a greater cultural capacity, overcome many outdated perceptions and further highlight us as a desirable destination for businesses, small and large, to continue to set up and thrive.

Conservation Architect

Blackburn is a place that has consistently punched above its weight. Its Cathedral, it's contribution to the nation’s textile industry, Mitchell and Kenyon’s pioneering influence in film (“We take them and make them”), and Blackburn Rovers’ place as one of the country’s most historically significant football clubs are all impacts you would expect of somewhere with city status. Blackburn is a place with a fascinating cultural heritage, and a thriving creative arts sector, hosting events on a national level. Blackburn is a place full of salt of the earth people, who embody our ‘By Skill and Work’ motto and inspire others. Blackburn is a place that will always be home, and which deserves city status.

Chair of Darwen Town Deal Board

‘’Blackburn and Darwen are two very distinct towns with their own unique identity that complement one another with their offers. Anything that reinforces our place on the map has to be welcomed.

“The borough is a genuinely fantastic and amazing place, and obtaining City Status for Blackburn would be a major catalyst for further growth and renewed ambition for the community’s future.”

“The public and private sector here have a really strong record of working together to deliver to make this city bid proposition compelling.

“From imaging cutting edge housing to creating an award-winning Business Improvement District that collaborates with hundreds of town centre businesses to bring their ideas to life, this is a place that has proven to itself that working together makes the difference.

“The Borough is rapidly becoming a major destination for businesses keen to take advantage of millions of pounds worth of regeneration and major improvements to transport links and education.

"City Status will only strengthen that position and show that we are a place to invest in and grow. It will without doubt be good for businesses across the borough and indeed wider than that.’’

"Businesses have had a really tough two years and city status would, I am sure, lead to a more prosperous future for many in making the borough a more attractive place to live, work and do business.”

Bishop of Blackburn

“I welcome the news Blackburn with Darwen Council is bidding for City Status. They have my wholehearted support. Securing City Status would be good news for residents of the town of course and for the whole County of Lancashire.

“It is already the home to the County’s Anglican Cathedral which brings many benefits to the area. Being bestowed this honour by Her Majesty The Queen would also reflect the heritage of the town in relation to worship and community cohesion; as well as its rich cultural and industrial heritage.

“It would also point to an exciting future based upon that strong foundation including ongoing investment in modern businesses; building further on recent town centre revitalisation work, most significantly the magnificent Cathedral Quarter.”

Vice Dean and Canon Missioner at Blackburn Cathedral

"Most people think that Cathedrals are in cities. They see our building and the work we do at the heart of civic life, in the arts, business and charitable sectors, with people of all faiths and none, and they assume that Blackburn already has city status. Wouldn't it be exciting and energising if that became a reality?

"Blackburn has a strong community spirit and is such a creative place; with a history in cotton and an exciting future. As a city that creativity would only continue to grow."

Vicar of Blackburn St Stephen and St James

“When I moved into Blackburn, in 2019, I received a very warm welcome, acceptance and hospitality from the local and wider community; while I also found it to be a real cultural hub. Blackburn has a rich tapestry of different languages, ethnicities, religions and multiple religious worship places and cultural expressions.

“There is exemplary cohesive living here, which reflects the true plural society in the country as whole; with 75% of youth from our minority ethnic groups born in the UK. There is also a confident spirit of unity and community amongst different faiths and cultures.

“Blackburn models incredible relations between different faith communities. It is very encouraging when people at the grassroots work together to secure a better future for all and for generations to come.

“It would be an exciting moment of celebration if we were to be given city status by Her Majesty; releasing much energy for growth in Blackburn itself of course and, by extension, Lancashire. I offer my full support for this bid.”

Chief Executive Community CVS

"Blackburn with Darwen is a great place to live and work.  Our people are warm and welcoming and there is a fantastic community spirit, which was self-evident in our response to the COVID 19 Pandemic.  There is a palpable vibe and buzz about the place and a ‘can do’ attitude – which is really special. Our businesses are thriving, our charities and public services are amongst the best in the country. We have a rich history and a bright future.  Despite the many challenges our communities face, Blackburn with Darwen is definitely going places, our strong community spirit and reputation for ‘kicking above our weight’ will make it happen.  I am supporting the bid for City Status, which would be a fitting tribute to everyone associated with Blackburn with Darwen – past, present and future. I am proud to say that I am from Blackburn."

Interim Chief Executive for East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust 

"Blackburn receiving City status would be a great boost for our local area and could potentially attract a significant number of experienced healthcare professionals to come and work in our Trust. This would be of huge benefit to the residents of Blackburn and we are fully supporting the Council's bid for Blackburn to become a city."

Strategic Director, Adult Services & Health (DASS)

"Blackburn is my home. I’ve grown up here and all things I hold dear to my heart are in this great place. It’s rich in history, culture, diversity and community life. I’m privileged to be the longest serving current ‘Chief officer’ having re-joined the borough in February 2002. I also worked for the council in the early 1990’s. I have a unique perspective on being able to give testimony to the growth and improvement of this great Town. It has been transformed, it has the only football premiership winners outside of the big cities, a magnificent Cathedral and a lot of Civic pride. It is in my view worthy of being a City. It would be a proud moment for me to see Blackburn made a City and it would be a great legacy and testament to the work of so many people, residents, communities and stakeholders, in Partnership over many decades and generations, who make Blackburn a great place."

Managing Director of Ainsworth Jewellers

"Above all, what makes Blackburn special is its people. We have been in business in Blackburn for more than 150 years; I am the fifth generation to lead Ainsworths. Throughout that time, we have made contacts who have become customers and then friends. There is an enormous sense of pride and positivity in the town and a passion to revive Blackburn. There is a loyalty. Customers know us and know our business. I take great delight in serving the next generations coming through and the conversations we have about previous generations – those my parents and grandparents served.

Over the last 15 years there has been a huge amount of regeneration which has transformed the town – look at the likes of Sudell Cross, King William Street and the Cathedral Quarter. Visitors to the town can see where we are going. In addition, we are attracting brilliant new businesses as well – quality outfits with great people.

Blackburn deserves city status because of the ways we have regenerated and changed; because of our positive approach to cultural relations and regeneration; our Lancashire Cathedral. Everything adds up to Blackburn being a city I look forward to celebrating."

 Group Commercial Director, EG Group

"Blackburn has all the hallmarks of a city and securing this recognition would naturally attract further investment into the borough and enhance the place profile both in the United Kingdom and internationally. City recognition would also facilitate additional opportunities such as developing an effective skills base to meet the needs of local businesses that will allow individuals to actively pursue professional careers and establish their own businesses. There are also opportunities to promote as a place to visit from a tourism perspective as it has a history that would interest many. The growth of this would attract much needed investment into arts, leisure and retail sectors.
Blackburn has a long, rich heritage of entrepreneurship and there is a strong local business base that continues to contribute to the prosperity of the town. The borough is reflective of diversity and culture, provides significant employment opportunities and offers good housing to the many who choose to live and work in the town and surrounding areas. "

Essentialise Workplace Wellbeing

"The sheer diversity and mix of people that work well together makes Blackburn special.
There’s a thread of collaboration that people don’t always see and the business community is interwoven – we work together, we put back into the community and back into our local charities. Our local communities are embedded in business successes. We all benefit: Blackburn rises together.

It’s a hive of innovation and industry, some of which is too often overlooked. We have great businesses from agriculture to engineering; manufacturing to professional and wellbeing services; hospitality to retail.

What we make and do here reaches all corners of the world.

If your perception of Blackburn is what you’ve seen on the news, then you’ll know us for our covid figures. But we were innovative and radical in our public health approaches – we were writing new rules.

We’re taking the fight to health inequalities in ways I don’t see anywhere else.
It would be a recognition of what quite a small population can achieve. Blackburn punches above the weight of a town, particularly in the area of ‘business brains for social gains’. We have great characters; incredibly successful businesses and people behind them but, no matter how successful, they do like to invest in their hometown.

Honouring Blackburn with City Status is an investment in its own right."

Prestige Beds, Operations Director

"We are very culturally diverse, rich in industrial and commercial heritage. We have bred many famous politicians, designers, business people, artists and performers. We have fantastic architecture - old and modern. And this is a happy place to be! We’re geographically very well positioned with easy access to neighbouring bustling towns and to the big cities. This gives us lots of opportunity for businesses to attract employees and to attract businesses. We are very strong in education – our schools and colleges and our university offer. This is good news for start-ups and inward investors as well as established businesses.

We have a fantastic Cathedral and, hopefully, a Premier League football club again soon! Through Blackburn College, we have excellent HE opportunities with degrees in Blackburn accredited by a global top 150 university – Lancaster University. We are one of the largest towns in the country. And Blackburn is the heart of Lancashire."

Whittakers Butchers

Our diversity makes us special. We are welcoming, we have our humour and we have a big work ethic in Blackburn.

We have bees on our town crest – we understand the value of hard work and teamwork.

We have an eclectic range of customers, from high court judges to people on the dole. It all adds up to a great working environment.

There’s a loyalty in Blackburn – our business has been here since 1916. People have lived and traded here for more than a thousand years. We have a magnificent cathedral. We have what it takes to be a city.

Greenbank Technology, Managing Director

!The diversity and culture in Blackburn make it special – likewise, the size of Blackburn extends beyond what could be classed as a Town. The longevity and links to innovation – industry leaders from the past to the present and there is a lot of Engineering capabilities within Blackburn.

Blackburn is located in a great position with close links to Manchester and Liverpool – it is situated close to the main motorway networks making its easy to access. But Blackburn has an industrial heritage and from that legacy, there is a fundamental knowledge base in its people – generations of individuals working in the same company with skills being passed down the generations and often-through families. There is a real connection with its location to the larger cities.

Blackburn deserves city status due to its size and diverse culture – longevity and heritage with such early ties to Industry. There is a remaining technical and engineering element to this and Greenbank are set to grow on the back of this – we have an infrastructure of suppliers and subcontract companies, which we rely on all based in Blackburn. A large percentage of our workforce is from the Blackburn area – so in a nutshell, Blackburn would benefit from a city status to attract more investment and build on what is already a substantial position – it would also help the recognition as part of the Northern Powerhouse.!

Lancashire Business View, Commercial Director

!We’re straight-talking, honest, upfront and personable people. It’s a very engaging environment. There are real friendships in the business community and this creates a rare loyalty. We’re in it together whatever our backgrounds. We look out for each other; we have each other’s backs. I am inspired daily by what our neighbouring businesses achieve.

I think people outside the town or borough realise just how united we are as a business community; we work together really well. This is why Blackburn is prospering, because we see it as a team game. We celebrate each other’s successes and we’re there when it’s tough for our mates. Maybe it’s a northern thing! We already look like a city and act like a city when it comes to business. We’re as strong as anywhere. Look at the scale of some of our homegrown businesses!

To win city status would be a recognition of what we are becoming. It would be a validation of our collective efforts – business, community and the public sector."

Matthew Robert Smith is an English actor. He is best known for his roles as the eleventh incarnation of the Doctor in the BBC series Doctor Who and Prince Philip in the Netflix series The Crown, the latter of which earned him a Primetime Emmy Award nomination.

‘’My dad was from Blackburn and so in part am I. Brought up on a strict diet of Blackburn Rovers, through the club and my family I’ve grown to appreciate Blackburn. Pioneers of the dance scene in the early nineties too!

Great football. Great people. Great dancers. What more can a city want ?’’

Partner and Head of Napthens Solicitors Blackburn office

"Blackburn has a fantastic business community consisting of a wide range of diverse and innovative businesses, from professional services & IT services through to manufacturers of wallpaper, e-liquids products, hygiene paper products as well as specialist aerospace engineering businesses. Importantly, Blackburn businesses are passionate about making Blackburn a great place to work and do business, supported by the HIVE network, Blackburn Youth Zone and the East Lancs Chamber of Commerce and with many businesses working with local schools and colleges to engage with, and inspire, the young people of Blackburn. Blackburn is also well located to the fantastic motorway networks making it easy for transportation of goods/products across the UK and is becoming a hub for distribution centres.

Blackburn benefits from a multicultural community resulting in a very diverse cultural offering in terms of education, work and social activities meaning it has plenty to offer people from all backgrounds and enabling the people of Blackburn to broaden their knowledge, experiences and lifestyle through engagement with different cultures and communities. The business community is strong, the quality of the Schools and Colleges is excellent enhanced by its own University offering and there is community spirit behind the local sporting clubs including Blackburn Rovers FC and Blackburn Rugby Union Football Club. Blackburn is an old mill town, steeped in history, with textile manufacturing going back to the 13th Century and being once recognised as the weaving capital of the world and the football club being a founding member of the Football League.

Blackburn embodies everything about being British – diverse, hardworking, passionate, friendly, respectful, ambitious and innovative. It’s a place that offers cultural diversity in art, music, food and drink, architecture, education and business."

Chief Executive, Nybble IT

"Blackburn has come a long way in the past 15 to 20 years. Every inch of the town is being developed. There are great possibilities here.

There’s a great deal of prosperity in the business community, though it’s often hidden. We have some massive businesses, but many quietly get on with business.

We’ve billionaire business people and they choose to stay here. That says a lot. Our business has been here for more than 20 years. If I wanted to move it, I could. But I don’t. I wouldn’t take this anywhere else.

It has a great location and is well connected.

Blackburn is a little haven of how diversity and inclusivity can work – it enriches us culturally and in other ways.

We deserve it. I see us as a city already. We have all the components that you would recognise in a city."

Sales Geek

"Lancashire is known for its warmth and Blackburn embodies it for me. I’m from Buckinghamshire and set up my business in Lancashire before locating to Blackburn a couple of years ago. It’s so friendly here. Nothing in the south compares. Blackburn is as Lancashire as it gets. It’s super-accessible. The M6 is close; the train gets us to Manchester very easily. It’s perfectly located for business. From my office window, I can see the Cathedral, moors, woods, hills, mosques, churches, sports venues, entertainment venues, shops, schools, a college and university centre, industry and commerce. On foot, I can eat some of the best and most authentic food in the world. In under 10 minutes I am in the countryside and, from a mental health perspective, it has the peace I need. In half an hour or so I’m at the seaside. In an hour, the Lake District and Manchester. It’s all here. It deserves to be a city; in fact, most people I bring to Blackburn already think that it is."

Chief Executive of Panaz and ESF

"Blackburn is fighting its way out of a difficult situation it found itself in for a long time, which is indicative of a lot of Lancashire. Some parts were left behind but new investment in technology and business will make it flourish.

The Council is very much pro-business and it’s important they and we, the business community, send signals that we are here to help create new businesses and offer skilled personnel and develop the infrastructure required by business. That public-private partnership is important.

We have good networks and the interaction between business leaders is conducive to creating ideas and better businesses.
It shouldn’t need saying, but it does – Blackburn has a very fine cathedral that too few people know about.

Being a city will make Blackburn a more attractive investment proposition. It will raise the profile. It will show an intent and an ambition.

Blackburn can put a stake in the ground – that we are a key player in the Lancashire narrative."

Chief Executive, Star Academies

"Residents of Blackburn have a genuine sense of pride in the town. Blackburn has rich social and industrial history, apparent in its skyline. It combines urban and rural dimensions. The countryside around Blackburn is spectacular and frames the town.

Blackburn’s cultural diversity and social cohesion are major strengths. Blackburn is a harmonious place, enriched by people of different faiths and ethnicities whose cultures and traditions are valued: Blackburn is inclusive and welcoming.

Notable Blackburn politicians- including Jack Straw and Barbara Castle – have had significant impact on national policy.

Star Academies – one of the country’s most successful Multi Academy Trusts, is based in Blackburn. Its founding school, TIGHS, is based in Blackburn and tops the national league tables for pupils’ progress. The school has won many accolades and is a beacon of hope, showing what can be achieved with determination and ambition to overcome barriers. The school is a flagship for the town and the region.

Blackburn has an entrepreneurial spirit and is home to significant modern, expanding businesses.

Progressive business opportunities and key sectors, including digital and cyber security, are vibrant and expanding within Blackburn. The town is also well placed geographically, with excellent access to the motorway network.

Business support from The Hive Network strengthens capacity. Skills providers in the town are equipping people to make the most of opportunities available to them.

John Noel Nichols (1883-1996) was a Blackburn entrepreneur who invented VIMTO.
Blackburn has come a long way since it featured in The Beatles’ A Day in the Life because of the state of its highways (‘four thousand holes in Blackburn, Lancashire’)

Forget the image of a rather dreary northern town – it’s a dynamic forward-thinking place for work, leisure and spiritual reflection, with a strong sense of civic pride and dignity."

Head of community TV station UCTV

Blackburn embraces different cultures and diversity - many cities don't.

Cotton Town Cat

Blackburn has a rich history of “thinking big” - from John Lewis to Alfred Wainwright to Jack Walker. Its citizens have long been “industry innovators” - from James Hargreaves to John Noel Nichols to Wayne Hemingway. It has produced countless “cultural ambassadors” for a global audience - from Kathleen Ferrier and Josephine Cox, to Carl Fogarty and Ian McShane, to Cat Simmons, Grace Davies and AJ Odudu - among many others.

Blackburn is the epitome of what it means to be cosmopolitan, and throughout its history it has welcomed people of all faiths and nationalities to live, work and contribute to the fabric of our community. As fourth and fifth generation Blackburnians - with my great-great-parents arriving from Ireland following its incorporation in 1851 - we have benefited greatly from the opportunities that the borough has to offer. We too seek to be cultural ambassadors using our platform to promote the features and characteristics that make our borough great.

Our website, which we set up in 2019, seeks to shine a light on the history, heritage, architecture, culture and community of Blackburn. While curating our content we have walked and cycled hundreds of miles, up hills and down Lanes, along Roads, Ranges and Brows, around Crescents and across Squares, and through the town centre, all within the borough boundary - and, wherever we have been, we have encountered friendly faces and interesting stories. In our experience, Blackburn is not just a place where inhabitants respect each others’ differences but rather it is a place where residents embrace each others’ similarities: all of us, Blackburn folk.

It would be easy to think only in terms of how our bid “measures up” to the traditional criteria to which a city should conform, such as a cathedral; a university; an internationally renowned sports team like Blackburn Rovers; and forward-thinking transport and infrastructure schemes. However, Blackburn sees these not as the final touches but as the foundations upon which to build, part of our proud industrial heritage, and of what all cities could aspire to be - a Capital of Community.

Being granted city status is not the end of the journey for Blackburn, by any means, but simply another step in the evolution of a unique, enterprising and continuously developing place. A place that we call home.