Since April 2004, when Blackburn with Darwen began its housing market renewal pathfinder project, the Council has made a successful start on its programme, which includes a profile of work following an award of £22.48 million for 2004-2006 and £27.5 million for 2006 - 2008. 

In the first two years of the programme a range of projects which included, housing renovation, environmental improvements, safety initiatives, demolition and land assembly for new developments were put in place.  These programmes, with an emphasis on housing refurbishments and clearing unfit homes to make way for new development, continued in 2006 - 2008.

In many areas of the borough a large number of sites are being redeveloped by the private sector and the increase in house prices has led to home owners investing in the improvement of their homes.  We can now see signs of renewed confidence in the housing market which is extending to all areas of the Borough. 

Housing Market Renewal is about creating a sustainable housing market.  An essential part of this is the confidence it gives to attract private investment in the form of new developments, renovation and home improvements.

Bank Top and Griffin - (Inner North West)

Audley & Queens Park, Infirmary & Whitebirk - (Inner South East)

Darwen North West & Central

Other projects

Projects for community confidence and improvement initiatives, including measures such as support to neighbourhood greens, local community safety projects, support for the environmental rapid response service, a noise nuisance project and a junior fire fighters project were completed during 2004-2006.

The Equity loans scheme, for residents affected by clearance, which was piloted in the Redearth Road clearance area, was rolled out borough wide and was made available to residents affected by clearance in all the HMR areas.  Eligible residents were able to apply for up to £35,000 equity loan to help them access housing until 31st March 2008.