WITH all the debate regarding the museum extension, I feel that it was about time for somebody to propose a different option. The existing museum we have in Blackburn is and has been great for years; it contains a wide variety of exhibits from a wide variety of time periods as well as a smattering of artefacts relevant to East Lancashire’s recent past. It may not be spectacular, but it does what it says on the tin.

The question seems to be is ‘How can this be improved?’ The consensus seems to be utilisation of the old Nat West building which is sandwiched between the two museums.

This will expand floor space, but I doubt it would improve things.

The only way the situation can be improved is to utilise the existing site as a central hub for a more interactive site where visitors can learn more about Lancashire’s history by seeing how we used to live and work. My propositions are: Renovation: A number of canalside mills are being allowed to become derelict, one could be renovated and restored to its former glory and equipped with reclaimed machinery.

Interaction: This machinery could be used to show how cotton was manufactured in the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries.

Learning: The restored sites could also contain classrooms, where pupils could have lessons in the museum.

Pleasure: The museum experience could also include canal cruises. Barges could also be utilised as classrooms.

Investment: Obviously not all the floor space would be taken up by the museum, and could be leased out to other businesses, creating extra income.

I am not a businessman but I am a historian and would love to see Blackburn exalting its history by preserving a small portion of it, rather than see its rapid erasure.

ANDY HENDERSON, Livesey Branch Road, Blackburn.