Blackburn with Darwen Council, in partnership with Historic England, has launched a public consultation to gather residents’ views on what should happen to the iconic structure. Dating back to 1900, the conservatory has played a part in countless local memories — from family strolls to wedding photos. Now the goal is to bring it back to life.
With £137,000 already allocated to investigate the scale of the restoration needed, the council has appointed architectural experts Buttress to explore feasible options. They want your input on how the space could be used — from a restored botanical hub or café, to an events venue or something entirely new.
The cost of full restoration is likely to run into the millions, so early community feedback is essential to support strong funding bids. And any future use would need to be sustainable for the long term.
📢 Have your say: Complete the short public survey here → Survey Link
A council spokesperson said:
“We know how much this building means to the people of Blackburn. Although investment isn’t guaranteed, we need to put in the groundwork now to give it the best chance.”
A Story in Pictures
To show just how much the structure has changed, we’re sharing a range of photos over the years of the Conservatory. The difference is stark — and shows exactly why now is the time to act.
Image Credits
- Image 1: Corporation Park Supporters Group – corporationparksupportersgroup.com
- Image 2: Square Cactus for Blackburn Life
- Image 3: Gayle Bolton (via Facebook)
- Additional archival images: Courtesy of Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council for the Cotton Town digitisation project – www.cottontown.org
What would you love to see in the Conservatory’s future?
Courtesy of Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council for the Cotton Town digitisation project 
Courtesy of Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council for the Cotton Town digitisation project 
Courtesy of Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council for the Cotton Town digitisation project 
Courtesy of Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council for the Cotton Town digitisation project 
Courtesy of Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council for the Cotton Town digitisation project 
Corporation Park Supporters Group 
Corporation Park Supporters Group 
Corporation Park Supporters Group 
Corporation Park Supporters Group 
Corporation Park Supporters Group 
Philip Rostron (Facebook) 
Corporation Park Supporters Group 
© 2014 Square Cactus for Blackburn Life
Wedding venue