Sir Jake Berry, who represented Rossendale and Darwen for 14 years, has announced his decision to join Reform UK – the party led by Nigel Farage – in a move shaking up national and local politics.
Plans have been revealed for the biggest transformation of Darwen Market in a generation — turning the historic Market Hall into a modern food hall destination, complete with artisan stalls, upgraded facilities, and opening hours running through to 10pm every night.
If you’ve noticed more theft, antisocial behaviour, or trouble on Blackburn’s streets lately — you’re not alone. Crime in town centres like ours has surged across the country, but this summer, a major effort is underway to turn things around.
Independent audit reveals safeguarding leadership failings and the continuing impact of historic abuse cases, despite years of reviews and promises of reform
Here’s your round-up of live music, family events, comedy, variety, and more — all happening from Monday to Sunday!
New campaign urges Blackburn with Darwen residents to donate to local charities instead.
Dig out your chokers, charge up your Nokia, and prepare to throw it back to the days of boybands, girl power and neon everything.
This week, Blackburn with Darwen has joined a national celebration honouring the people who quietly change lives every day — the carers behind the Shared Lives programme.
🎭 Your guide to events, shows, live music, and more this week in Blackburn
From family favourites to comedy gigs, there’s something for everyone in Blackburn this week.
Steel frames are going up, excitement is building, and Darwen’s next big thing for young people is finally coming to life.
Blackburn with Darwen Council has hosted a first-of-its-kind conference dedicated to celebrating dads — and pushing for stronger support for fathers across the borough.
After a temporary relocation, Darwen Town Hall is set to reopen its front desk services next week.
Blackburn and Darwen will come together next week to honour the UK’s Armed Forces with special flag-raising ceremonies at both town halls.
Blackburn with Darwen residents are being urged to have their say in a new set of surveys that will help shape the future of local transport and highways.
Nancy Kinyanjui (Kairos Housing), Salma Mohamed (ARC), and Zainab Elbusefi (DARE) are behind a full week of inspiring, thought-provoking and family-friendly events taking place from Sunday 16 June to Saturday 22 June.
One of Blackburn’s biggest weekends is just around the corner – and if you’re looking for a fun-packed family day out, the National Festival of Making is one you won’t want to miss.
Blackburn with Darwen Council Leader Phil Riley has responded to Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ first Spending Review by welcoming new pledges on youth support, social care, infrastructure and housing — while warning that the borough must not be left behind.
It sounds like something straight off a price tag – but it’s true. Budget retailer Poundland has been sold for just £1 in a shock move that could see up to 100 stores shut down across the UK.
A major haul of illegal cigarettes and vapes has been uncovered at four Blackburn businesses following an enforcement operation by Blackburn with Darwen Council’s Trading Standards team, supported by police.
Once a symbol of Blackburn’s Victorian pride, the Corporation Park Conservatory now stands boarded up, rusting and forgotten. But that could all change — and your opinion could help shape its future.
Blackburn is getting ready to burst into colour as Pride 2025 returns to the town on Saturday 21st June — and this year promises to be louder, prouder, and more inclusive than ever.
Big plans are rolling out across Blackburn with Darwen – and it’s not just about filling potholes.
Interest in new homes for sale in Blackburn has soared by 271%, reveals local housebuilder Countryside Homes.
Do you know someone who goes above and beyond to help others? Now’s your chance to say thank you.
Sewing fans — the Janome Summer Sale has officially landed!
In August 2023, it was announced that Blackburn was set to welcome a new drive-thru restaurant from popular Canadian coffee and doughnut brand Tim Hortons. Hopes were high for a swift opening at the proposed site on Townsmoor Retail Park — the former home of Carphone Warehouse. The plans promised 50 new jobs, a new food and drink destination, and a much-needed boost for the retail park.
New figures show that Blackburn motorists continue to face some of the highest petrol and diesel prices in the region, reigniting long-standing concerns that the town’s drivers are being unfairly penalised at the pump.
Music fans in Blackburn are in for something truly special this summer as a brand-new stage show about the legendary John Lennon arrives at the Blackburn Empire Theatre for one night only on Thursday 12 June 2025.
Hobkirks have launched brand new Brother sewing machine offers — now available online and in-store!
Blackburn’s nightlife has taken another hit with the closure of The Rock Box on King William Street. More than just a bar, The Rock Box had become a focal point for Blackburn’s live music scene and a rare haven for fans of rock and alternative culture. Now shuttered after months of financial difficulty, its closure raises bigger questions about Blackburn’s ability to sustain drinking venues and night-time culture in a rapidly changing town centre.
After a roaring start in Liverpool, complete with standing ovations and five-star reviews, Irish Annie’s is heading to the Blackburn Empire Theatre for one night only — and audiences are in for a real treat.
An unexpected and moving moment unfolded at Blackburn’s VE80 Fest in Witton Park, as a family visiting the event discovered a tribute to their own wartime relative on display at the Veterans Living History Museum CIC exhibition.
Considering your next home? Bovis Homes will provide tips for those looking to upsize, downsize or move up the property ladder at its special Home Movers weekend on 10th – 11th May.
Hobkirk Sewing Machines in Blackburn is offering a series of exciting deals throughout May – perfect for sewing enthusiasts looking to upgrade their equipment or try something new.
A full house, a standing ovation, and wave after wave of applause — Beauty and the Beast has roared into Blackburn Empire Theatre with style, spirit, and spectacle.
Witton Park in Blackburn is preparing to host one of the region’s most anticipated community events — VE80 Fest — marking the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day.
