A campaign has been launched to refurbish Blackburn Cathedral and under the plans, the building would benefit from the installation of modern lighting.In total, the work would cost around £1.5 million and it would involve an ambitious light fittings scheme, as well as a revamp of the crypt area containing the cafe and kitchens.
According to the Diocese of Blackburn, the cathedral, which still holds a daily round of services, is in urgent need of rewiring.Dean of the building the Reverend Christopher Armstrong said that while the fabric of the construction had been well maintained and cared for over the years, it still needs constant attention.
He remarked: “The most urgent work is to ensure that the building is in a condition appropriate for Lancashire’s only Anglican cathedral and fit for inclusive participation by all. Part of the work will be to ensure the building is fully accessible and that it makes a positive contribution to carbon reduction and sustainability initiatives.”
Meanwhile, Canon Sacrist Andrew Hindley added that a significant part of the work would be the complete rewiring and installation of modern lighting around the building. He claimed this is “now very necessary”, pointing out that the electrics are now half a century old.
He said: “At the time it was installed it was the best and most modern available and while it has served well it is now past its sell-by date.”Some of the new light fittings will involve the latest LED technology and this will be used to highlight the most attractive features and artworks in the building.
Canon Hindley added: “We want to maximise the impact of this very significant and beautiful building in the heart of the town.”Maintaining old buildings of this nature is often a difficult task and there is almost always something that can be improved, whether it is the lighting or something else.
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