WORK has begun on the next phase of the multimillion-pound Mill Bank Business Park development.

The project, developed jointly by Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council and Barnfield Blackburn Limited, is an ambitious plan to solve traffic problems and alleviate flooding all while building a new commercial development that could lead to 100 new jobs.

This particular phase will see a new road into the site linking Greenbank Terrace and Milking Lane which developers hope will not only provide access to the park but will also solve a recurring traffic bottle necking problem on Milking Lane and reduce flooding in Greenbank.

Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council programme director Simon Jones said: "It is a pleasure to be involved in the development.

“As a council we have played a major part in the design of the new link road and overcoming the challenges due to the topography of the land.

“The proposals put forward will also alleviate the flooding on Greenbank Terrace which has been a problem for the area for many years."

The project’s masterplan shows a range of commercial units from small starter unit and is scheduled for completion in March 2021.

Several disused buildings have already been cleared to make way for new ones.

Barnfield Group head of development and acquisitions Tracy Clavell-Bate said: “It was clearly evident when we acquired the site that firstly, we needed to address the two derelict office buildings which had laid dormant for many years.

“Since their demolition in 2019, the partnership has been busy behind the scenes, working with planning, highways and the environment agency, to overcome a number of challenging issues.

“Having gained planning earlier this year for the link road and uses across the development plots, we are delighted to be back on site.”

The council and company came together through the Lancashire Enterprise Partnership which also contributed £1.4 million.

LEP chair Steve Fogg said: “It is great to see public and private sector partners working together to unlock and facilitate developments and we are delighted to support this project which will result in a high quality mixed use development in the area.

He added: “The new road will not only provide essential infrastructure for new homes but will also unlock commercial space with the potential to create over 100 jobs for the town.”