The Executive Board of Blackburn with Darwen Council met on Thursday, 13 June 2024, to discuss various significant issues, including the development of the Blackburn Town Centre Campus, updates on the Levelling Up Partnership, and the Tree and Woodland Strategy. Decisions were made on several key projects, including the allocation of funding for the Blackburn Business Innovation District and the approval of the Tree and Woodland Strategy.

Blackburn Town Centre Campus Development

The Board discussed the Business Innovation District development, a central component of the £250m investment framework for Blackburn town centre. The project aims to deliver the Blackburn Business Innovation District Phase 1 - Skills and Education Campus. The Board approved a capital budget of £750,000 for planning activities and authorised the Growth Programme Director to commence procurement processes. Councillor Quesir Mahmood noted the importance of this development, stating, This project is crucial for the economic revitalisation of Blackburn, providing essential skills and education facilities.

Levelling Up Partnership Update

An update was provided on the Levelling Up Partnership (LUP), a government initiative announced in March 2023. Blackburn with Darwen secured LUP status with the prospect of £20.3m in new funding. The Board authorised the Strategic Director of Growth and Development and the Strategic Director for Finance and Resources to finalise the funding package with the government. Councillor John Slater did not vote on this item. The Board welcomed the LUP package, with Councillor Mahmood highlighting, This funding will significantly impact our local infrastructure and community projects.

Tree and Woodland Strategy

The Board approved the Tree and Woodland Strategy, a key tool for ensuring the flourishing and protection of treescapes in Blackburn with Darwen. The strategy aligns with other council policies, such as the Local Plan 2021-2037 and the Climate Emergency Action Plan. The strategy sets a vision for 2030 and outlines objectives and actions to achieve this vision. Councillor Mahmood emphasised the strategy's importance, stating, Our commitment to fostering and protecting our natural environment is vital for the well-being of our communities.

Pole Lane Traffic Calming Scheme

The Board considered a petition from residents requesting the removal of chicanes on Pole Lane, Darwen. The existing traffic calming measures, introduced in 2021, will be reviewed, and amendments considered to address residents' concerns about vehicle speeds. Councillor Mahmood responded to the petition, noting, We will develop an alternative or additional scheme to further reduce speeds in the area.

Youth MPs Update

Deputy Youth MPs Ethan Woods and Nadeem Iqbal updated the Board on recent activities, including the Youth MP Elections and the Make Your Mark campaign. Over 4,000 young people participated in the campaign, with top local issues identified as Jobs, Economy & Benefits, Health & Well-being, and Culture, Media & Sport. The Board congratulated the Youth MPs and invited them to become involved in their portfolios.

Adoption Report

The Board received a six-monthly adoption report from the Head of Service for the Regional Adoption Agency, reviewing adoption activity for the first six months of 2023/24. The report fulfilled obligations under the Adoption National Minimum Standards (2011) and the Adoption Service Statutory Guidance (2011).

School Holiday Pattern for 2025/2026

The Board agreed on the school term and holiday pattern for Community and Controlled schools for 2025/2026. This pattern is binding on all community and voluntary controlled schools in Blackburn with Darwen, with other schools encouraged to consider the advice when setting their calendars.

For more detailed information, you can refer to the Minutes of the Meeting and the Public Reports Pack.