The road will be closed between Duke Street and Barton Street, near King Georges Hall, for up to three years.
The closure is necessary to allow the Blackburn College works to be carried out safely.
As part of the diversion, Duke Street will be reopened to two-way traffic, meaning that on-street parking there will be reduced. Pedestrian access will also be diverted.
The council’s Highways Team is working closely with the contractor, BAM, to minimise any disruption. The diversions will be clearly signposted.
All neighbouring businesses will remain open as usual and the council has updated those in the area about the closure.
The project is being funded by the Department for Education’s (DFE) Further Education Capital Transformation Fund.
The restored building will be used by the college as a new campus for its performing arts, creative, and digital industries courses. It is also expected to attract new businesses and visitors to the town.
Motorists are advised to follow the diversion signs.
