Blackburn’s grade two-listed Exchange building is set for a major transformation, thanks to a £1.5 million grant from Blackburn with Darwen Council. The funding will kickstart the first phase of a £9 million redevelopment project led by the charity Re:Source.

Originally built in 1865, the Exchange has a storied history, having served as a cotton exchange and later as the Apollo Cinema. The approved plans, drawn up by Buttress Architects, include 2,200 sq ft of collaborative workspace, a 6,300 sq ft events space, a roof terrace and bar, and various meeting rooms and private offices. This project is likely to be a focal point at upcoming *property networking events* in Blackburn, given its potential to revitalise the town centre.

The £1.5 million grant will fund crucial improvements, such as installing a new lift, repairing the tower, creating a new entrance, and replacing the leaky roof of the building’s 1920s extension. The development could be a key topic at construction networking events in the North West, where professionals might discuss strategies on *how to win construction contracts* for projects of this scale.

Re:Source, which has managed The Exchange since 2015, plans to go out to tender for the work in late September, with the aim of appointing a contractor in October and starting construction in November. The completion is targeted for summer 2025, a timeline that could be highlighted at *investment networking* events across the region.

“It’s fantastic to see work already starting using this new investment – work that will make a real difference,” said Cllr Quesir Mahmood, deputy leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council. “The Exchange is an iconic venue in the town centre with a fascinating history and an exciting future ahead, a future we’re really proud to be able to support.”

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