Published Friday 4 September 2020 at 9:29
Residents are being asked to have their say on a new masterplan which could help shape the development of the former Darwen Moorland High School site.
The derelict land in Holden Fold and the surrounding area could be transformed in to a new neighbourhood boasting around 430 homes.
The proposals include investment in new roads, money to expand primary school capacity and an upgrade for the Square Meadow Sports Facility.
Councillor Phil Riley, Executive Member for Regeneration at Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council, said:
The land in Holden Fold has stood empty for some time now after the former school buildings had to be demolished due to arson.
This is a chance to breathe new life in to the whole area – creating a quality development of homes for residents in the town and surrounding areas.
The masterplan sets out the ambitions for the site, where over 400 houses could create a brand new neighbourhood.
We’ll be putting it on show as part of a public consultation and are asking residents to come forward with their comments, ideas and suggestions.
Once agreed, the masterplan would be used to help secure planning permission for the land – which has a range of owners, including the Council.
The land would then be sold for development.
The area borders Holden Fold, Roman Road and Polyphemus Woods.
Councillor Riley added:
Houses on the other new sites in Darwen are selling well. This is an opportunity to create another quality development in the town and this masterplan is key to delivering that.
The site has already been earmarked for housing as part of the Local Plan and this process will ensure it is developed in a comprehensive and co-ordinated way.
The proposals would include a range of homes, including affordable housing as well as properties for rent.
All of the homes would be built to incorporate the public footpaths and there will be greenspace.
This site is one of five major housing allocations for Darwen and the masterplan helps set out a clear vision for the future.
Exhibition boards outlining the masterplan can be viewed at Darwen Market from Monday, September 7 to Monday, October 5.
Residents are able to have their say throughout that period with their feedback being considered to inform the final plan.
Due to the restrictions around Coronavirus and in a bid to keep residents safe, residents can also access the full information online from Monday at: https://www.blackburn.gov.uk/about-council/consultations
Printed versions of the full masterplan and supporting documents will also be available to view in Darwen Library