Appeal Lodged Over Refused Gypsy Caravan Site – What It Means for Action at Hall Moss Farm
An appeal has been lodged against the Council’s refusal of planning permission for an unlawful caravan site in Darwen – and while the appeal is underway, the Council’s enforcement action to remove the site is effectively paused.
Workers’ Memorial Day Marked in Blackburn with Darwen
Workers’ Memorial Day was marked in Blackburn with Darwen this week, with a ceremony attended by union members, local representatives, and supporters from across the borough.
Roadworks Set to Begin as Major Bus Route Upgrades Continue Across Blackburn with Darwen
Improvement works across key junctions in Blackburn with Darwen are continuing as part of a major investment in local bus services – but residents are being advised to expect some disruption while the upgrades take place.
Good Ofsted Judgement for Blackburn with Darwen’s Children’s Services
Children’s Services in Blackburn with Darwen have received a ‘Good’ rating across the board from Ofsted, marking a significant step forward since the previous inspection in 2022.
Blackburn BID Seeking New Manager as Role Becomes Vacant
Blackburn’s Business Improvement District (BID) is recruiting for a new BID Manager, following a change in leadership.
The UK’s tallest transportable observation wheel has arrived in Blackburn town centre – and it’s HUGE!
Catch it in Cathedral Square from this Saturday for 5 weeks – covering both May Bank Holidays, VE Day, and half-term.
From Injury to Triumph: Blackburn Runner Completes First Marathon on Her Birthday
Blackburn Road Runners’ Lynne Knowles had more than one reason to celebrate last weekend — not only was it her birthday, but she also completed her first-ever marathon at the Manchester Marathon, overcoming a major injury along the way.
Workers’ Memorial Day Marked in Blackburn with Darwen
Workers’ Memorial Day was marked in Blackburn with Darwen this week, with a ceremony attended by union members, local representatives, and supporters from across the borough.
Blackburn Times Up for Sale – Is Blackburn Set to Lose Another Town Centre Bar?
Another of Blackburn’s town centre bars could be set for change, with the Blackburn Times on Northgate now up for sale.
Roadworks Set to Begin as Major Bus Route Upgrades Continue Across Blackburn with Darwen
Improvement works across key junctions in Blackburn with Darwen are continuing as part of a major investment in local bus services – but residents are being advised to expect some disruption while the upgrades take place.
Good Ofsted Judgement for Blackburn with Darwen’s Children’s Services
Children’s Services in Blackburn with Darwen have received a ‘Good’ rating across the board from Ofsted, marking a significant step forward since the previous inspection in 2022.
Former Electric Church to Be Transformed into Chaii Tea Café
A former live music venue in Blackburn town centre is set for a new lease of life – as a new Chaii tea café.
West End Star Lee Mead Brings His Showstopping New Tour to Blackburn
Blackburn will welcome a familiar West End face this July, as singer and actor Lee Mead brings his brand-new live show, The Best of Me, to the Blackburn Empire Theatre on Friday 4 July 2025.
Opinion: M&S at Whitebirk – The Best Outcome Blackburn Could Hope For
There’s no doubt the news that Marks & Spencer will leave Blackburn town centre will be met with disappointment by many. For decades, M&S has been a cornerstone of high street shopping in Blackburn, a familiar name on a changing landscape. But when it comes to the future of the brand in our borough, the newly approved move to Whitebirk is, in truth, the best Blackburn could have hoped for.
Make a Splash – Name Darwen’s Giant Inflatable and Win Big!
Something HUGE is making a splash at Darwen Leisure Centre – and you could be the first to try it out!
Comics, Capes & Chaos! Free Comic Book Day Returns to To the Batcave
To the Batcave, Blackburn’s independent comic book haven, is gearing up for one of the most exciting days in the geek calendar – Free Comic Book Day 2025!
Rovers’ Incredible History Brought to Life in New Exhibition at Blackburn Museum
A brand-new exhibition celebrating 150 years of Blackburn Rovers Football Club has opened at Blackburn Museum and Art Gallery—just yards from where the club was first formed in 1875.
All Aboard! Blackburn’s Outer Circle Bus Route Returns This May
A much-missed bus service is making a welcome return in Blackburn – nearly a decade after it was withdrawn.
Refurbishment Work Set to Begin at Darwen Town Hall
Refurbishment work is set to begin at Darwen Town Hall, following Council approval of plans to upgrade the building and prepare it for the relocation of joint Council and NHS services.
VE80 Fest – A Spectacular Community Celebration of Victory in Europe Day
Witton Country Park will come alive this May Bank Holiday as Blackburn hosts a major community celebration to mark the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day.
Mayor Joins Celebrations at Blakewater Homecare Following CQC Success
Blakewater Homecare in Blackburn recently welcomed a special guest as the Mayor of Blackburn with Darwen, Councillor Brian Taylor, paid a visit last Friday to celebrate the service’s recent success in its first CQC (Care Quality Commission) assessment.
Spring into Savings with Hobkirk Sewing Machines!
Spring is here – and so is a fantastic Spring Sale from Hobkirk Sewing Machines, one of Blackburn’s best-loved crafting suppliers.
Steptoe and Son Bring Classic Comedy to Blackburn Stage
A legendary sitcom is coming back to life in Blackburn this spring, as Steptoe and Son – LIVE! hits the stage at Blackburn Empire Theatre on Thursday 24 April 2025.
Mayor of Blackburn with Darwen Shares Eid Greetings
The Mayor of Blackburn with Darwen, Councillor Brian Taylor, has shared a special message to mark Eid ul Fitr, one of the most significant celebrations in the Islamic calendar.
Major Upgrades Set for Sunnyhurst Woods in Darwen
Work is set to begin on a significant improvement project at Sunnyhurst Woods in Darwen, with upgrades to the main path forming part of the wider £100m Darwen Town Deal.
Linda Lusardi Leads a Magical Line-Up of Family Shows at Blackburn Empire This Easter!
This Easter, the Blackburn Empire Theatre is the place to be for fun, laughter, and a little bit of magic for the whole family – and leading the way is none other than TV legend Linda Lusardi, starring in the sparkling Easter pantomime Sleeping Beauty on Sunday 13th April.
Blackburn Librarian Shortlisted for Prestigious National Award
Blackburn with Darwen’s Community History Librarian, Mary Painter, has been shortlisted for a Libraries Connected Award – a national recognition celebrating the achievements of exceptional library staff across the UK.
Mother’s Day Special: Treat Mum (or Yourself!) to the Tula Pink x Oliso Mini Project Iron
Looking for the perfect gift for the crafty mum in your life? Or maybe you are the crafty mum who deserves something special? This Mother’s Day, Blackburn’s own Hobkirk Sewing Machines has just the thing!