Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council has approved plans for a new permanent entrance way to
Darwen Market following the removal of the 3 day market. This will replace the temporary door that
is currently in place, allowing access to the Annex and car park from the soon to be redeveloped
Darwen Market Square.
Following conversations with market traders and members of the public, it was apparent that there
was a very clear need to maintain this access point. The plans are for a glass frontage with sliding
doors, illuminated signage and the focal point being a locally designed and made terracotta façade,
by Darwen Terracotta, that will improve the current aesthetics by covering a concrete surround.
Jon Wilson of Darwen Terracotta said, “When we heard of the plans for the Darwen Market Square
redevelopment we wanted to be involved somehow. As a local business we wanted to give
something back to our home town and the façade for the new market entrance was an ideal
opportunity for us.”
The entrance way is designed to look different from the Market building as it is accessing the 1970’s
built Annex extension and as such it was felt a contrast would be distinctive and appropriate. There
will be a link between the traditional market building and the modern entrance through the design
on the terracotta and the materials being used.
Cllr Phil Riley said, “I am really pleased that we have been able to respond to the needs of the
market traders and public to create what will be a welcome addition to the market.”
He added, “We are investing in Darwen by creating an additional attractive entrance way to the
market and a new public space. Darwen Terracotta are a nationally renowned business and it’s great
to be able to use their skills on a local project that will support Darwen businesses.”
Work will be scheduled alongside the wider Darwen Market Square redevelopment which will begin
in May 2018.
