COUNCILLORS will receive an update on work to rejuvenate Blackburn’s Blakey Moor and Northgate.

In November, bosses appointed designers to come up with a scheme for a key part of the multi-million regeneration of Blackburn's Blakey Moor.

Blackburn with Darwen Council had sought expressions of interest from design firms interested in contributing to the council's plan to breathe new life into the row of terraced properties along Blakey Moor opposite King George's Hall and near the new Reel Cinema site.

The preferred option developed to date comprises the redevelopment of the Blakey Moor Terrace for restaurant or cafe use.

As part of the scheme, the council wants to see the terrace repaired and restored to its historic design and split into two double-storey units.

Manchester's Northern Quarter has been taken as inspiration for the scheme.

The council's director of growth and development, Martin Kelly, approved the appointment of Leeds-based architects Group Ginger to come up with designs for the redevelopment of the terrace.

Now borough growth and development boss Cllr Phil Riley has issued an update on work to be discussed at next week’s council forum meeting.

Cllr Riley said: “The environmental improvements to Blakey Moor and Northgate are largely complete with just some small snagging issues to be resolved in the New Year and cleaning/repair of Gladstone’s statue in late February when it’s hoped the risk of frost is reduced.

“Focus has now moved to development of Blakey Moor Terrace. Structural and measured surveys were undertaken in December with a view to developing plans by February.

“Work to bring forward projects on a number of other properties on Northgate is also progressing and a meeting to showcase proposals to businesses and property owners is scheduled for January 28.”