I APPLAUD the Citizen's recent coverage of the plight of the Pavilion buildings on Church Street in Blackburn.

I arrived in this area just as Blackburn had caught the 60s syndrome and started to demolish everything of any architectural merit. The shopping precinct has cost a fortune ever since and what is a £30,000 English Heritage grant in comparison?

About eight years ago myself and some friends got together and enquired about one of the pavilions which was up for sale. The council warned us off saying they had plans for them.

It is now apparent these plans were demolition.

I know the Cathedral could use the buildings but would need financial help. An imposing Cathedral entrance could be built between the buildings. If Blackburn is serious about its bid to become a city, why can't we have a proper Cathedral Close protected from vandals and litter?

Alternatively, the buildings could be linked together by a conservatory-type arcade and turned into a small and select shopping area which would grace the Cathedral site.

Whatever happens, we must fight to preserve and restore these few remaining relics of a more gracious past.

Joan Hunwick

Kings Drive

Hoddlesden

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