Area Overview for BB5 1AB

Area Information

BB5 1AB is a small residential postcode area in Lancashire, nestled within the broader Blackburn region, historically linked to textile industries and manorial land divisions. With a population of 1,563, it forms part of the Peel Ward in Hyndburn Borough Council, adjacent to Oswaldtwistle. The area retains traces of its past, including the Peel Hotel on Barton Street, named after Sir Robert Peel, founder of the UK police force, and a blue plaque marking the birthplace of the Peel family near Cardwell Place. Daily life here is shaped by its compact size and proximity to nearby towns. Residents benefit from a mix of historical character and modern amenities, including retail outlets like Iceland Accrington and Tesco Accrington Abbey, as well as rail links to Accrington and Rawtenstall. The community, predominantly middle-aged adults, reflects the area’s longstanding ties to local industries and its evolving role in the North West’s landscape.

Area Type
Postcode
Area Size
Not available
Population
1563
Population Density
8007 people/km²

The property market in BB5 1AB is defined by a 38% home ownership rate, suggesting that a majority of residents live in rented properties. The predominant accommodation type is houses, which may indicate a focus on family homes or larger properties, though the small postcode area limits the variety of housing stock. This dynamic positions the area as more of a rental market than an owner-occupied one, potentially attracting buyers looking for investment opportunities or those seeking temporary residences. The compact size of BB5 1AB means that property searches should extend to nearby areas for a broader selection. For buyers, the mix of historical and modern housing could appeal to those valuing character, though the limited data on property types or prices means further local research would be necessary to gauge market trends.

House Prices in BB5 1AB

No properties found in this postcode.

Energy Efficiency in BB5 1AB

The lifestyle in BB5 1AB is shaped by its proximity to retail outlets, rail networks, and nearby towns. Local shops like Iceland Accrington, Aldi Milnshaw, and Tesco Accrington Abbey provide everyday convenience, while rail stations such as Accrington and Huncoat offer easy access to commuting. The area’s historical character, including the Peel Hotel and blue plaques, adds a sense of heritage to daily life. For leisure, the nearby Rawtenstall metro station opens up opportunities for travel to surrounding areas. While the area is compact, its practical amenities and transport links create a balanced lifestyle, blending local convenience with regional connectivity. The mix of retail, transport, and historical sites ensures residents have access to both essentials and cultural touchpoints.

Amenities

Schools

The nearest school to BB5 1AB is Accrington Peel Park Primary School, which holds a ‘good’ Ofsted rating. As a primary school, it serves the local community’s younger residents, offering a foundation for early education. The absence of secondary schools or other educational institutions in the immediate vicinity means families may need to look beyond the postcode area for comprehensive schooling options. However, the presence of a well-rated primary school is a positive factor for those prioritising quality education for their children. The single listed school reflects the area’s small size, but its rating suggests that it meets acceptable standards for teaching and facilities.

RankA + A* %SchoolTypeEntry genderAges
1N/AAccrington Peel Park Primary SchoolprimaryN/AN/A

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Demographics

The population of BB5 1AB has a median age of 47, with the majority of residents aged between 30 and 64. This suggests a community skewed toward established adults, likely with long-term ties to the area. Home ownership rates stand at 38%, indicating a significant proportion of residents rent their homes. The predominant accommodation type is houses, which aligns with the area’s residential character. The ethnic composition is largely White, though no specific data on diversity beyond this is provided. This demographic profile suggests a stable, mature population with potential for community cohesion. The absence of detailed deprivation data means it is unclear how economic factors influence quality of life, but the age range and home ownership figures imply a mix of long-term residents and those seeking rental properties in a historically significant area.

Household Size

One person
most common

Accommodation Type

Houses
most common

Tenure

38
majority

Ethnic Group

White
most common

Religion

N/A
most common

Household Composition

N/A
most common

Age

47
median
Adults (30-64 years)
most common

Household Deprivation

N/A
with no deprivation

NS-SEC

16
in Lower managerial occupations

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Planning

Planning Constraints

  • Flood Risk
    Locked
  • Ramsar Wetland Sites
    Locked
  • Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
    Locked
  • Protected Nature Reserve
    Locked
  • Protected Woodland
    Locked
  • Crime Risk
    Locked

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the community feel like in BB5 1AB?
The area has a stable, mature population with a median age of 47, predominantly adults aged 30-64. The community is compact, with a mix of long-term residents and renters, reflecting its historical ties to local industries. The presence of the Peel Hotel and blue plaques adds a sense of heritage, though the small size means a close-knit but limited social network.
Who lives in BB5 1AB?
Residents are mostly adults aged 30-64, with a median age of 47. The predominant ethnic group is White, and home ownership is 38%, suggesting a significant rental market. The area’s historical significance and practical amenities attract a mix of long-term locals and those seeking convenient housing in the North West.
What schools are available near BB5 1AB?
The nearest school is Accrington Peel Park Primary School, rated ‘good’ by Ofsted. No secondary schools are listed, so families may need to look beyond the postcode for comprehensive education. The primary school’s quality is a key asset for local families.
How connected is BB5 1AB digitally and by transport?
The area has excellent broadband (score 96) and good mobile coverage (83). Rail links to Accrington, Church & Oswaldtwistle, and Huncoat provide regional connectivity, while a metro link to Rawtenstall enhances accessibility. Retail amenities are within practical reach, supporting daily convenience.
What about safety in BB5 1AB?
The area has no flood or environmental risks but faces a critical crime risk, with a score of 0/100. Residents are advised to take enhanced security measures. While natural hazards are absent, crime rates are above average, requiring vigilance in shared spaces and during evenings.

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