ENGLISH Heritage has held Darwen up as an example of good practice in town centre management.

In a report published by the Government body, the town was used as a case study based on the recent Townscape Heritage Initiative (THI), which saw £2million spent on improving the appearance of the town centre.

The report, entitled ‘The changing face of the high street: decline and revival’, is aimed at providing guidance on how to keep historic buildings in use, and provided case studies as examples.

The THI saw cash from the Heritage Lottery Fund and Blackburn with Darwen Council used to make improvements to historic buildings around the town centre. Specific buildings were targeted in view of their condition, occupancy and historical significance.

The report highlighted economic and social benefits, such as attracting new investment as a direct result of the THI.

On Darwen, it said: “Environmental improvements have been achieved successfully, with investments and repairs to prominent buildings in the centre contributing positively to the character and appearance of the conservation area. There has also been a significant social impact in the town as a result of the THI.

“The changes in Darwen’s pride and image have contributed hugely to a more positive attitude towards Darwen town centre.”

Sunnyhurst councillor Dave Smith said: “Some of the buildings have improved considerably and a lot of the owners have really tried to make things look nicer.

“A good example is the front of the town hall and market building, which now looks superb.

“It is really good that English Heritage has cited Darwen as an example and hopefully it will encourage people to come to the town.”

Coun Maureen Bateson, executive member for Regeneration at Blackburn with Darwen Council, said she was ‘delighted’ English Heritage had recognised Darwen.

She said: “The success of the THI scheme came as a result of impressive partnership working by all parties who were fully committed to regenerating and enhancing the many important and historical buildings in Darwen.

“But not only did the Darwen THI scheme help successfully restore many of Darwen’s best buildings, it also attracted significant private investment into the borough.”