PLANS to turn an open space into an overgrown haven for wild flowers, butterflies and small mammals are under way - with council officials calling on local residents and schoolchildren for their views.

Blackburn with Darwen Council are holding a four-week consultation period and have sent out more than 400 postal questionnaires.

They want to know what people would like to become of the land on Sough Road, Darwen.

Tom Wilson, the council's head of outdoor amenities, said: "This is an unusual land management scheme because in the past we have turned similar open spaces into immaculate lawns and pristine gardens.

"But creating such a wildlife meadow would be beneficial to the people of the area, local schoolchildren for environmental projects, and would be in keeping with the surrounding area."

He added: "The consultation period comes to a close at the end of the month and the response we have had so far been very encouraging. Once we have compiled the results, we may hold a public meeting to ask residents and school children what they would like to see done."

Eventually the council wants residents to take an active role in maintaining the area.

Mr Wilson added: "Our long term aim is to get people to help maintain the site and take part in environmental projects."

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