Blackburn to enter 'City Status' competition

Its to mark the Queen's Platinum Jubilee in 2022

Author: Demi OlutunmogunPublished 5th Nov 2021

Blackburn and Darwen Council have entered Blackpool into the City 'Status' competition to mark the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee in 2022.

The decision to take part comes following the news that its neighbouring town, Darwen was successful in its bid for £25m in Town Deal funding.

They previously bid for the status in 2002 but lost to their rival Preston.

The Council believes the town has unique strengths and spirit, particularly its diverse communities that come together.

Council Leader Mohammed Khan, who was himself last year awarded a CBE by the Queen for his services to the borough, said:

“We are incredibly proud that we are able to submit a bid on behalf of the town and be a part of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

“This bid for City Status is an opportunity for us to showcase everything that we already know is great about Blackburn.

“The potential for increased tourism, media, economic impact, skills, jobs and to highlight the array of cultural assets and projects the town delivers is incredibly exciting."

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