Kier lined up for Blackburn’s £45m Star Square scheme

Kier is set to be appointed as the contractor for Blackburn’s landmark Star Square development, a £45m scheme in the heart of the town centre.

The project is part of what is described as the largest town centre regeneration scheme of its kind in Lancashire.

Following a procurement process, the UK construction, infrastructure and property development company has emerged as the preferred bidder.

The first phase will include the first of four planned buildings, plus a new pocket park on part of the existing Brown Street car park.

Star Academies will be the anchor tenant, relocating its headquarters and National Institute of Teaching to 1 Star Square.

The development is backed by £20m of Government funding, alongside investment from Star Academies, Blackburn with Darwen Council and the Lancashire Combined County Authority.

Councillor Quesir Mahmood, Deputy Leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council and Executive Member for Growth and Development, said Star Square is one of the most significant regeneration schemes currently being developed in Lancashire and a key part of the council’s £250m vision for Blackburn town centre.

He said the council worked hard to secure the £20m of Government funding, alongside a further £2m from the Lancashire Combined County Authority, to help bring the scheme forward.

He added that the development sits alongside other major projects under way in Blackburn, including restoration work at the former St John’s Church, the transformation of King George’s Hall and the creation of the new Cultural Quarter.

Kam Kothia OBE, DL, Chair of Star Academies, said the first phase of Star Square marks the beginning of an inspiring new era for the organisation and the communities it serves.

He said the new home at 1 Star Square will provide a modern, purpose-built environment and will also act as a flagship professional development and research centre, including the National Institute of Teaching’s North & West Campus and its headquarters.

Proposals for 1 Star Square include a 200-seat lecture theatre, training facilities, flexible workspaces, meeting rooms and a recording studio.

An updated planning application is due to be submitted in the coming months.

Preparatory works are already under way on site, with highway improvement works now complete and drainage diversion works expected to finish by the end of the year.

Subject to final approvals, main construction could begin as early as spring 2027.