Work begins to protect Corporation Park conservatory

This week work starts in Corporation Park to prevent further damage to the conservatory over winter.

Contractors working on behalf of Blackburn with Darwen Council will be on site this week to remove glass panes from the East wing of the building.

The panes are being removed, on the advice of Historic England, following a recent site visit.

Coun Jim Smith, Executive Member for Environment, explained:

Our concern is that the weight of any snowfall over winter on the conservatory roof could cause damage to the East wing of the building, as has happened previously to the West wing. Understandably, the Council and Corporation Park Supporters Group want to avoid any further damage to the building. That’s why we have arranged for this prevention work to be carried out now, ahead of any more snowfall that would pose a greater risk to the building.”

The Council’s Strategic Director of Environment & Operations Martin Eden said:

We know that many local residents are fond of the conservatory and wish to see it brought back into use. We share their sentiments about this much loved and valued community asset and are working closely with Historic England to prevent further deterioration and prepare a viable plan for its future restoration.

We’re also working towards submitting a large-scale funding bid to the National Lottery Heritage Fund in 2024. If successful, this would see the conservatory refurbished and brought back into use.”

Nicola Beswick, Chair of Corporation Park Supporters Group, added:

Corporation Park Supporters Group have been working with the Council for many years to try to find a way to restore the conservatory and create a long term sustainable future, so it can benefit the local community for years to come.

We welcome the steps taken by the Council to prevent further damage to the structure and the new efforts to bid for funding. We will be continuing to contribute to the restoration process until the Conservatory is back in use and beyond.

Community support for the restoration will be vital for the success of a funding bid. Anyone wishing to join in the efforts should contact us at info@corporationparksupportersgroup.com.”