I NOTE that there is to be restoration of the buildings in Darwen to preserve the architectural heritage.

Where was this concern when the areas of Queen’s Street and Redearth, which consisted of traditional housing built from Lancashire stone, were demolished for regeneration?

The reply may be the restoration of houses in the St Peter’s Church area.

However, to preserve a few streets and demolish large areas of the town results in offering only a token gesture.

The site of former area has still to be rebuilt. The architecture of the new Academy on the latter site makes no concession to the architectural heritage of the town.

Many also believe that Blackburn with Darwen Council’s ‘we know best’ attitude will result in the site becoming a logistical nightmare.

The leisure centre frontage which is to be preserved seems to stand in isolation rather than being incorporated into the structure of the building. Why?

Why spend money on increasing open space and reducing bus access near the market when this was never an original concept?

Now that Darwen has its own council, let us hope that although its powers may be limited, it gives a voice to the people of the town.

The neglect and lack of support by Blackburn to Darwen traders need to be addressed. Bury market is thriving even in this economic climate but does benefit from council support.

Restoring the mayoral chain may seem unnecessary. It is not vital to the workings of the council.

However, it can represent the heritage and pride that Darwen has in itself.

Concepts which, with the support of Darweners, can be restored.

PATRICIA COOPER, Waterside, Darwen.