MAJOR repair and restoration works to Darwen Tower are now set to go ahead subject to the government's final approval.

Blackburn with Darwen Council’s Planning Committee last night voted unanimously to grant the permission needed to be able to carry out the work on the Grade II listed building.

The restoration work will improve the observation decks at the top of the tower, repoint of the building with lime and mortar, repair stonework, re-glaze windows, instal new handrails, and replace rainwater pipes.

The approval was give after Darwen West's Cllr Brian Taylor attended the online meeting to urge fellow councillors to support the improvements to the 'iconic landmark' and 'preserve it for future generations to enjoy'.

Councillors praised the teamwork which had raised the £280,000 needed for the work including £200,000 from the government's Darwen Town Deal and £80,000 raised by Darwen Rotary Club.

The decision now requires local government secretary Robert Jenrick to rubber stamp it.

Darwen East Liberal Democrat Cllr Paul Browne hailed the restoration saying the Jubilee Tower built in 1897 could be seen across the North-West and even from the Isle of Man on a good day.

Chair of the Darwen Town Deal Board Wayne Wild said: "This is fantastic news!

"The tower is iconic – it stands proudly on the top of the moors and Darreners always know they’re ‘home’ when they see it.

"It also helps bring visitors to the town."

Cllr Phil Riley, Blackburn with Darwen council's regeneration boss, said: "This is superb news."