Potential protests in Blackburn, Saturday 3 August

The Leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council has called for calm and offered reassurance after reports of potential protests in Blackburn town centre on Saturday 3 August.

Lancashire Police have received no confirmed intelligence of a protest being arranged through supporters of the English Defence League.

However, there is a possibility that a counter-protest, standing against racism, may take place in Blackburn town centre around lunchtime, and could include a march that crosses Barbara Castle Way.

Traffic management arrangements are being put in place, in the event of the march going ahead.

Coun Phil Riley said:

Like many people, I’m appalled that the tragic incident in Southport has encouraged certain people, thankfully not from our local communities, to incite hatred and cause violent disturbances over the last few days.  

Driven by hatred, they are trying to create divisions when many people in our communities, particularly parents and grandparents and those who work with young children, are united in sharing condolences with the affected community in Southport.

Many of us have been heartened to see the community response in Southport and the diverse group of people who have come together in the aftermath of Monday’s tragedy and the disturbance of Tuesday evening, driven only by love and compassion.

Speaking specifically on the reports of potential protests in Blackburn on Saturday 3 August, the Leader added:

Of course, people have a right to protest, but this must be done in a peaceful manner.

I want to reassure Blackburn town centre businesses, as well as shoppers and other visitors to the town centre, that we are working closely with Lancashire Police to encourage any protestors to behave responsibly and calmly.

We want everyone from Blackburn with Darwen’s diverse communities to feel safe in the town centre and will work hard with Lancashire Police to offer reassurance.

Blackburn Library and Blackburn Museum are both hosting family activities on Saturday 3 August. Families are advised that the town centre may be busier than usual, and asked to bear this in mind when making plans.