

Friends of Watery Lane Play Area
The Issue
The children's play area located between Watery Lane and Alfred Street in Darwen South holds cherished memories for our community, yet it has sadly fallen into severe disrepair. Years of neglect and the lack of a long-term maintenance budget from Blackburn with Darwen (BwD) Council have left this once-bustling area a shadow of its former self.
For the children of Darwen South, this play area was more than just a recreational space; it was a place where friendships were forged and imaginations soared. Unfortunately, today's children do not have the chance to create these memories due to its current condition, which poses safety hazards and diminishes our neighborhood's charm.
In recent inquiries, BwD Council confirmed that no long-term maintenance budget existed for this site. This oversight must be corrected to ensure that future generations can enjoy this essential community resource.
We, the dedicated residents of Darwen South, believe it is imperative to act now. We urge the Darwen Town Board to allocate necessary funding from the Pride in Place Programme directly towards the complete rebuilding and restoration of the Watery Lane & Alfred Street play area. By doing so, we can revitalise our community, offering our children a safe and wonderful place to play.
This playground is a vital neighborhood asset. Its restoration will enhance the quality of life in our community and demonstrate a renewed commitment to the well-being of our children. We cannot overlook the importance of providing our young ones with a safe, vibrant space for recreation and growth.
Please join us in supporting this cause by signing this petition. Together, we can ensure that this beloved play area is not only restored but also preserved for generations to come. Let us come together to make a positive change for Darwen South's youngest residents.

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The Issue
The children's play area located between Watery Lane and Alfred Street in Darwen South holds cherished memories for our community, yet it has sadly fallen into severe disrepair. Years of neglect and the lack of a long-term maintenance budget from Blackburn with Darwen (BwD) Council have left this once-bustling area a shadow of its former self.
For the children of Darwen South, this play area was more than just a recreational space; it was a place where friendships were forged and imaginations soared. Unfortunately, today's children do not have the chance to create these memories due to its current condition, which poses safety hazards and diminishes our neighborhood's charm.
In recent inquiries, BwD Council confirmed that no long-term maintenance budget existed for this site. This oversight must be corrected to ensure that future generations can enjoy this essential community resource.
We, the dedicated residents of Darwen South, believe it is imperative to act now. We urge the Darwen Town Board to allocate necessary funding from the Pride in Place Programme directly towards the complete rebuilding and restoration of the Watery Lane & Alfred Street play area. By doing so, we can revitalise our community, offering our children a safe and wonderful place to play.
This playground is a vital neighborhood asset. Its restoration will enhance the quality of life in our community and demonstrate a renewed commitment to the well-being of our children. We cannot overlook the importance of providing our young ones with a safe, vibrant space for recreation and growth.
Please join us in supporting this cause by signing this petition. Together, we can ensure that this beloved play area is not only restored but also preserved for generations to come. Let us come together to make a positive change for Darwen South's youngest residents.

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Petition created on 6 July 2026