Phase one, which is being developed by Wright group’s development arm Maple Grove Developments, will consist of two buildings, both being very similar in design to those within the neighbouring Cathedral Quarter development.

Blackburn with Darwen Council has successfully secured £20m of Levelling Up funding towards the scheme and is in talks with UCLAN for its training company, T2000, to expand and re-locate to the development.

Nick Hague, project director for Maple Grove Developments, said: “We’ve been working in partnership with Blackburn with Darwen Council for a number of years and are delighted to be supporting them in bringing forward this hugely ambitious and exciting project.

“The two new buildings, along with the fantastic public realm and landscaping, will transform this key gateway site into a world-class education and commercial quarter, supporting the wider regeneration plans for the town centre.

“The buildings will provide flexibility to the occupants, allowing them to adapt over time, responding to the ever changing business and academic world we live in.

“These are indeed exciting times in Blackburn.”