A COUNCILLOR has outlined his vision for changes to accommodation space at Blackburn and Darwen town halls.

The deputy leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council has called for a review on how to use council office space more efficiently.

Detailed surveys have been carried out on Blackburn Town Hall and the tower block and found that both require internal investment to bring them up to current standards and maximise available floor space.

Darwen Town Hall has not been surveyed.

Speaking at Thursday’s executive members meeting Cllr Andy Kay, executive member for resources and deputy leader of the council said: “It’s obvious we need a review of our accommodation and look at how we can use that space efficiently.

“Blackburn town hall, Blackburn tower block and Darwen hall are only 60 per cent occupied.

“I’m 99.9 per cent sure that we will not demolish any of the town halls.

“I also do not think it the idea of merging Blackburn and Darwen town hall would be a good idea because it’s not practical.

“The space in the town halls would not be suitable for that change. There will have to be some improvements made to Blackburn town hall.

“If a refurbishment takes place I do not think we can expect the officer work inside the building while the works are taking place. They would have to be moved around.

“Employees at Blackburn town hall could move to the tower block while works are ongoing and vice versa.

“Something similar could happen to Darwen town hall but it depends on the work that needs to be carried out there and where they could move to in Darwen.

“It will take a while to do the research then to make a decision which is what we intend to. It could take years to complete this multi million pound project.”

Cllr Arshid Mahmood, who lives in Blackburn, said: “I want to use the space to the maximum capacity rather than the cost and expense we have for different buildings that the town hall owns.”

Cllr Roy Davies, who lives in Darwen, said: “Over the years they have spent more money refurbishing the town hall in Blackburn than.

“There hasn’t been any evidence of money being spent in Darwen town hall even though it needs it.

“It’s clear that something needs to be done and it’s good that the council are considering refurbishing it.”