A £9m restoration plan for a Grade II listed building in Blackburn has been approved. The Exchange was built in 1865 in the Victorian gothic style to serve as a cotton exchange during the town’s heyday at the height of the North west’s textile industry.
The Lancashire Telegraph reports that Darwen Council have granted permission for the upgrade of the heritage building on King William Street. The approval is granted with a set of conditions that are intended to preserve the original character of the building. The interior is decayed, including historic plasterwork that is in a poor condition.
The restoration will see the main storey of the building transformed into an open-plan performance and exhibition space, with a mezzanine floor containing a cafe and bar.
The council's growth boss, Cllr Quesir Mahmood, said: "I am really delighted to see this building brought back into use. It is iconic and historic. Everyone who visits the area comments on the magnificence of the building."
Operations Director, Caer Butler said: ‘We are delighted with the successful outcome of the approval for The Exchange’s whole building application.”
“This momentous moment enables Re:Source Blackburn, the charity that owns The Exchange to move full steam ahead with our major grant funding applications to achieve our vision to bring this magnificent building back to life as a vibrant venue in Blackburn town centre.”
The owners of the heritage venue aim to make the Cotton Exchange a key visitor destination in the town, alongside Blackburn Museum and Art Gallery, The Making Rooms, and The Bureau. They also aim to make it an affordable and accessible space for performing arts societies, clubs, and organisations.
