Published Wednesday 24 March 2021 at 10:47
Extensive work to repair and restore the borough’s landmark Darwen Tower is expected to begin next month.
Darwen Tower is a Grade 2 listed octagonal Jubilee Tower built in 1898 by public subscription to celebrate Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee.
Wayne Wild, Chair of Darwen Town Deal Board, said: “The Tower is located high upon Darwen Moors – and can be seen from miles around. However, this is also what had led to its poor physical state.
“The roof has already been replaced twice, but more difficult and less visible issues with the building now need attention. These repairs and restoration will ensure this landmark can remain open to the public for future generations.”
The Board of the Darwen Town Deal awarded £225,000 towards the cost of repairing the Tower after considering an application from Blackburn with Darwen Council. This funding, coupled with the £70,000 raised through fundraising efforts led by Darwen Rotary and a £10,000 contribution from Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council, provides sufficient funding to complete the necessary repairs.
Five specialist historic building contractors, all of which have experience of restoring Grade 2 listed buildings, are currently being considered as the main building contractor to carry out the works required.
The contract is expected to be awarded this month with work due to commence in April. The work to the Tower is expected to be completed by September 2021.
The delicate restoration work will include the use of lime mortar to repoint walls of the Tower to ensure they are weatherproof and watertight. This work requires dry weather with temperatures above 5oC.
The work also includes repairs to the rainwater disposal system, weathering and deck of the upper observation level, rebuilding and repointing of walls, replacement polycarbonate windows, and installation of information boards.
Following heavy rainfall and harsh winter weather, the Council’s highways service will undertake repairs to Belgrave Road, the main access track, so building materials, fencing and scaffolding can be transported to site.
Every measure is being taken to ensure that wildlife will not be harmed by the proposed works. The Council has commissioned an ecologist to help protect habitats with particular emphasis on bats and ground nesting birds.
Councillor Phil Riley, Executive Member for Growth and Regeneration at Blackburn with Darwen Council, said: “The Town Deal funding, coupled with £70,000 generated from fund raising led by Darwen Rotary and a £10,000 contribution from the Council will provide sufficient funding to undertake the repairs.
“The repairs will improve public access and ensure the long-term sustainability of the Tower. It will also support the Council’s commitment to increasing the health and wellbeing of residents of the Borough through physical activity.”
