AN ambitious £1.3million scheme to develop a new public space in the heart of Darwen will soon be under way.

Work is set to start next week on plans to develop the space for events and entertainment in the town centre.

The plans were unveiled in February, with the design showing three distinct areas, including a large formal market square with capacity big enough for people to enjoy large-scale outdoor events, an area with green landscaping for sitting, playing and relaxing, and the potential for retail within the larger refurbished units.

The space will be created on the site of the three-day-market which was knocked down last September.

Council bosses said the site will open up views to key Darwen landmarks, including the town hall, St Peter’s Church and Darwen Tower, while providing a much-needed space for local events.

Eric Wright Civil Engineering will work with Blackburn with Darwen Council and public artist Liam Hopkins to create the new space.

Eric Wright has delivered a number of projects in recent years such as the Cathedral Quarter in Blackburn, which was a partnership with the council.

Cllr Mohammed Khan, leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council, said: “Darwen Market Square is going to be transformed for the community to use and will open the space up as central location for large scale events.

“The space has been planned out to help attract visitors to shop and spend time in the town centre while enjoying their surroundings.

“The new space will have a green area with seating for relaxing and meeting friends as well as some refurbished units with the potential for additional shops.

Cllr Phil Riley, executive member for regeneration, said: “This is the next step on our journey to creating a fantastic public space that will be enjoyed by the people of Darwen for many years to come.”

There will be a number of pieces of public art designed and created by Liam Hopkins.

There will be an artwork which will act as a focal point within a circular paved area, with additional pieces including a metal gate in front of Darwen Market loading bay and metal window designs within the units under Railway Road.

The work due to be completed in early 2019.