THE future of a historic visitor centre in Darwen is set to be decided within the next month.

The Friends of Sunnyhurst Woods has been in discussions with Blackburn with Darwen Council over the running of the centre after it came under threat in October.

Council bosses announced last year they were seeking alternative ways to secure its future due to budget cuts.

The friends group has been asked if it can take over the reins voluntarily.

Lauren Oakland, treasurer for the friends group, said: “We are finalising plans with the council at the moment and in the next month we will release information about the running of the centre.”

Work is also ongoing on a masterplan for the future development of the woods and it is expected that a final report on this will be revealed next month as well.

The blueprint is being prepared by the friends group and Blackburn environmental consultants Newground.

Suggested improvements in the draft plan that went out for consultation included better drainage, less steep steps, handrails alongside stairways and steep inclines and thinner vegetation to improve visibility.