A BUILDING that was an eyesore for local residents has been given a smart new look.

And the development has also had a safety spin-off.

Electrical contractors and heating control specialists G and M Kay bought the building, in Primrose Street, Darwen, in November 1997.

Partner Gordon Kay said: "The building and surrounding land was in a very poor state and was an eyesore for the neighbours.

"Also, the fencing at the rear of the building had been ripped away and was being used as a short cut across the railway."

An old boiler house was demolished and major landscaping carried out.

New gates were put in and the railway fenced off.

Mr Kay said: "We feel that this project has improved the outlook for the houses in both Primrose Street and Ratcliffe Street, and other overlooking properties.

"It has also made the railway more secure."

The project has been entered for the Lancashire Evening Telegraph's Grimewatch Awards.

There are categories for schools, community groups, businesses, individuals and local authorities.

Any project which makes East Lancashire a cleaner, greener place to live is eligible. For full details of how to enter, contact Grimewatch co-ordinator Lynn Schofield on 01254 678678 ext 244, Mondays and Thursdays from 9.30am to 12.30pm.

She can also be contacted by fax on 01254 680429 or by e-mail on grimewatch@aol.com.

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