A LEADING DARWEN politician says the widespread confusion over the legal powers of the new town council is threatening future development.

The problem came to light after an unnamed property developer was incorrectly told to hold back on his investment in the area until the local council regains control of its planning powers.

This will not happen as Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council runs all main services in the area, such as planning, education and transport, with Darwen Town Council having a much smaller role.

Executive member for planning Jackie Slater moved to quash any rumours about expanded powers for the new body since it's creation at the start of the month.

She said: “They are categorically incorrect as all legal powers of planning approval are held by Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council.

“It is vital for the success of our town that developers are not under any false impression of where the decision-making process takes place. Since it was the For Darwen party that won the majority of seats, it needs to be explained to people what they actually voted for. As Blackburn with Darwen is a unitary authority, no final planning powers are held by the town council.

“Leaflets were handed out to all households and the facts were put into the last newsletter, but people don't seem to be getting the message. The sooner they do, the sooner this problem will go away.”

Founding member of For Darwen and current English Democrat Coun Michael Johnson refuted any accusation made against his former party.

He said: “The For Darwen party has never conned the people of our town.

"I wrote the original manifesto, which can be read by anyone, which accurately detailed both the position they stand for and the powers that would be in the hands of a parish council.”