Residents are being asked to help decide the future of Corporation Park Conservatory, with Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council launching a fresh consultation after an overwhelming response last year.
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In May 2025, the council invited people from the borough and beyond to share their views on the historic Conservatory. More than 1,500 people responded, showing strong public feeling and support for restoring the Grade II listed building.
The council says it wants to bring the Conservatory back into use, but restoring it is expected to cost millions of pounds. It plans to apply to the National Lottery Heritage Fund, a process that could take years.
To secure funding, the council and its heritage consultants Buttress must show not only that the building can be restored, but that it has a sustainable long-term future. Any plan will need to generate enough income to cover ongoing maintenance and bring lasting benefits for local people and the wider community.
Three possible options have been drawn up.
Option 1: Restoration would create a flexible community space for workshops, educational visits and local groups, with smaller pop-up events also possible. The Conservatory would be restored as closely as possible to its original form, though a small extension or alterations may be needed for facilities such as toilets and storage.
Option 2: Event & Botanical Venue would turn it into a venue for weddings, events and functions, set among restored botanical displays. This would include a fully restored Conservatory and an extension to provide the facilities needed for events.
Option 3: Commercial Partner Model would see the Conservatory leased to a permanent business such as a restaurant, tearoom or horticultural enterprise. That would require alterations or an extension to support a long-term commercial use.
The council is encouraging anyone with an interest in the Conservatory to take part in the consultation. Public feedback will help decide which option is taken forward and shape the funding bid. The survey is open now here https://forms.office.com/e/DsJzBJpV1U
Option 1 if not option 2.
Definitely not option 3, it must stay with the people of Blackburn via the council. It should not be leased to a private company.