CAN we honestly blame Standard Life for digging in their heels when it comes to the refurbishment of the remaining area of Blackburn's shopping precinct when they can see the hideous amount of money squandered on the adjacent Church Street, all under the banner of "regeneration"?

Had consideration been given to utilising some of what remained of our industrial heritage, instead of spending tens of thousands of pounds on imported cobbles and kerbs, together with the most expensive flag paving money can buy, we may have had enough of the Heritage Lottery or EU grant left to help contribute towards the regeneration of Lord Square.

Councillor Ashley Whalley, executive member for regeneration, states that the only way that the council can see to resolve the matter is to shame them into getting something done.

It seems a bit too late to adopt that sort of attitude. Lord Square has been slowly deteriorating, mainly through neglect, for probably the last 20 years.

What needs now to be done is something positive, or it will remain in its present condition. If the elected council executive is incapable of assisting in resolving the matter, then it is about time someone is appointed who can.

RON CRANE, Walden Road, Blackburn.