DARWEN Tower could soon be illuminated at night after the town council finally discovered an affordable plan.

The prospect of lighting up the landmark, which was built for Queen Victoria’s diamond jubilee, goes back some years — but there have always been financial bridges that could not be crossed.

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The idea was discussed at the latest Darwen Town Council meeting and the cost of using solar panels came to around £5,600, compared to using a landline and lighting which would cost more than £30,000.

Cllr Brian Taylor (Sunnyhurst) said the amount is for once well within the council budget and he is keen to push the plans through despite concerns around vandalism.

He said: “It is something I really favour and it is something that people have wanted for a long time. This idea goes back years and there have always been problems with costing — but now this is well within reach.

“We have had problems with vandals near the tower and I completely understand that but are we going to let them stand in the way of something we really want to do? I think not.

“We had people put forward views about the Spitfire possibly being prone to vandalism and it has not ever been touched.

“It is a risk but it is a risk well worth taking.”

Sudell councillor Paul Browne had major doubts over the plans, expressing concerns about vandalism, costs and the need to get planning permission to build the solar panels.

He said: “We have always had problems around the tower with vandals.

“When we put the new top on it that was wrecked within a week.

“I would be worried about that.

“I also do not think we will be granted planning permission for it. I think there are other things we could spend the money on, as much as I would love to see Darwen Tower lit up.”

It is understood that Cllr Dave Smith is investigating whether planning permission will be needed for solar panels to be put up.

Borough councillor Jane Oates said: “I would love to se the tower lit up. It is such a wonderful landmark.

“The costing is a problem. I think there are more important things to be spending it on. However, it would be a highlight. Perhaps we can think about getting a collection going.”