School children at St Nicholas Church of England Primary School have had their Forest School restored by local contractors giving back to the community as part of a contract with Blackpool Council. 

The much loved outdoor learning space at the school on School Road, Blackpool, is a favourite part of the children’s school day, however persistent issues with flooding had seen the area out of bounds since earlier in the year. 

North West contractors George Cox and Sons were happy to help find a solution and get the outside classroom back into a useable condition for the teachers and school children to enjoy again.  

George Cox and Sons are the contractor creating the new access road for Blackpool Airport Enterprise Zone, as part of Blackpool Council’s £18.5m expansion designed to create more jobs in the area. 

Blackpool Council asks all their contractors working in the town to help benefit the local community through social value. 

George Cox and Sons provided over £4,300 worth of labour and materials to dry out the area and replace the old piping that was causing drainage issues at the bottom of the nearby school playing field with tougher, more durable materials. 

Working in collaboration with HRI Groundworks, who supported with a site team, the works were carried out over three full working days in the summer holidays. The updates will ensure the Forest School remains in good condition for the school to enjoy for many years to come.  

The outdoor classroom can now be used for a variety of fun activities again, all designed to teach the children outdoor skills and how to help nature thrive. From making dens, enjoying nature walks and creating recipes in the mud kitchen, to planting wildflowers, moving logs with wheelbarrows and building features with tyres, the Forest School offers a unique learning experience for the children. 

George Cox and Sons are already in discussions with the school to see what other projects they can help with in the near future. 

 

Cllr Mark Smith, Cabinet Member for Economy and Built Environment at Blackpool Council, said:  

“We are delighted the contractor and school could work together to get the much loved Forest School fully functioning again. It’s a wonderful initiative that helps take the learning outside the classroom, allowing the children to benefit from new skills and experiences. 

“It’s important to us that contractors who are working with us to make Blackpool better, also give back to the local community through social value. That could be by employing locally, helping educate the next generation through apprenticeships or improving community areas.” 

 

Claire Taylor, Headteacher at St. Nicholas Church of England Primary School, added: 

“We are thrilled with the work that George Cox and Sons have done here. The Forest School flooded often, meaning that we couldn’t use it in the winter months. The works now mean that our children can access this amazing resource all year round! Our Forest School leader, Mrs H Bartlett, is thrilled that she can plan fabulous activities for our children in the winter months. A huge thank you from our school community for the materials, labour and care they took in their work.” 

 

Matthew Edwards, Director at George Cox and Sons, commented:

“It is great to be able to give back to the communities in which we work and this plays a small but important part in our social value agenda. To provide this for a school which has committed to a fabulous facility makes this all the more rewarding.” 

 

The school, which is nearby to the ongoing construction works, were also involved in the project earlier in the year when the school children were chosen to help pick the two new road names – Vickers Way and Hallett Avenue. The names are in keeping with the local tradition to use aviation themed road names. 

Once open, the new road will provide a vital connection from Common Edge Road to Blackpool Business Park on Amy Johnson Way. The work also includes widening Common Edge Road and improving the junction at School Road to reduce congestion.  

The majority of the works around Common Edge Road are expected to complete later this month, with the new through road to Amy Johnson Way expected to open early next year. 

Funding for the road has been supported by a £7.5m grant from the UK Government, as part of the Blackpool Town Deal awarded in 2022. 

 

For more information on the Blackpool Airport Enterprise Zone, visit www.blackpoolez.com. 

A masterplan for Blackpool’s much-loved Stanley Park has been approved along with a £500,000 investment for its centenary year.  

The Stanley Park Masterplan 2025-2030 provides a detailed approach to highlight the restoration and preservation of this unique and nationally important historical park, whilst also providing a future vision for the management and development of its key features to ensure its longevity. 

The 390-acre, Grade II listed park is often referred to as the jewel in Blackpool’s crown. It has a unique character blending architecture, horticulture and recreation.  

At the centre of the masterplan is the need to preserve the park’s historic and ecological heritage.  It also includes details on potential future projects for the park including improvements to the tennis pavilion, play areas, lighting, lake and tennis courts.  

 

Cllr Jane Hugo, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Climate Change,  said:

“I am delighted that the Stanley Park Masterplan has been published.  

“The aim of the plan and our aspiration is to increase the use of the park, for all interests, abilities, backgrounds and ages and in addition to ensure a focus on ensuring we meet the future investment requirements. 

“Stanley Park is loved by so many, holding special memories and experiences for all generations. Not only is it a true icon of the town, it also acts as a showcase for looking after our natural environment as a response to the changing climate, a haven for wildlife and people alike.  

“I am particularly excited as 2026 is the centenary year of the park and I believe this plan is the vehicle to involving and empowering people in the parks development and also investment opportunities.  

“I am thrilled to announce that Stanley Park will receive an investment of £500,000 in 2026. £50,000 of this has been raised by wonderful Friends of Stanley Park group who I look forward to working with on the plans for the centenary celebrations.”  

 

The fountain, Italian Gardens trellising and columns and the Cocker Clock are all inline to receive vital funding.   

 

Nigel Patterson, Chair of Friends of Stanley Park, said: “We have been working closely with the council on the development of this masterplan and the centenary celebrations.  

“I would like to thank everyone who supports our fundraising efforts and activities throughout the year, their contributions mean that we are able to invest £50,000 into vital works to protect and improve our park.”  

 

A full programme of events is being developed in the lead up to the centenary day, Friday 2 October 2026. A steering group is already in place, which includes the Friends of Stanley Park, the focus of which is to put together a programme of events and attract investment in the physical infrastructure of the park in the lead up to the centenary date. The aim will be to provide a programme that provides for all ages, interests and abilities 

Work to renovate an iconic Blackpool town centre building has completed, as it prepares for a new future as a hub for growing local businesses.

Blackpool Council has completed a £8.2m transformation of Stanley Buildings, breathing new life into a heritage building 90 years after it first opened.

The transformation includes opening The Robinson, a new business growth hub, designed to help local companies grow.

Disused space in the upper floors has been refurbished to offer 44 private offices for lease, as well as six meeting rooms and a vibrant co-working environment.

 

Cllr Mark Smith, Blackpool Council’s Cabinet Member for Economy and Built Environment, said:

“This fantastic restoration shows how we’re making Blackpool better and creating more opportunities for businesses to create jobs for local people.

“This is an iconic Blackpool building that has been restored by Blackpool businesses using Blackpool workers, in order to help new Blackpool businesses to grow.

“It’s a real local success story of how we’re using regeneration and construction to benefit everybody in the town.

“The Robinson is a symbol of Blackpool’s confidence in its future. This building once embodied the innovation of the 1930s, and it now stands ready to inspire a new generation of businesses, entrepreneurs, and collaborators. I’m proud to see the building reimagined with renewed purpose and a future-facing vision.

“It’s an exciting time to be a business in Blackpool town centre, as thousands of workers and students move into this area, offering lots of opportunities for local people to find work or start businesses.”

 

Work to the rest of the building has included repairing and replacing faience blocks, refurbishing the roof and installing new windows. Investment in solar panels and air source heat pumps will significantly lower the building’s carbon impact.

Renovation work has included the replacement of 18 shopfront units with further works underway to ensure the retail units are ready to occupy.  The project will attract more businesses into the town centre to benefit from Blackpool Council’s £350m regeneration of the area, bringing over 8,000 workers and students into the area in the coming years.

The Robinson is named in honour of John Charles Robinson, Blackpool Corporation’s former chief architect, who between 1920-1944 designed many of Blackpool’s landmark civic buildings including Stanley Buildings, a symbol of art deco elegance. The Robinson reflects that same spirit of progress, with beautifully designed spaces for working, meeting and co-working.

The triangular shaped Stanley Buildings, with its distinctive cream art deco façade, was opened in 1935 and originally comprised 26 shops at ground floor level with corporation offices above called Stanley Chambers.

Original architectural features have been carefully preserved and complemented by modern amenities, including ultra-fast broadband and thoughtfully designed communal spaces.

The project has been funded by Blackpool Council and the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity and Town Deal Funds.

 

Minister for Devolution, Faith and Communities Miatta Fahnbulleh MP said:

“This is exactly the kind of transformation we want to see in town centres across the country.

“We’re proud to help fund this brilliant project that’s turned an old and iconic building into a modern place where local businesses can grow and create jobs for people across Blackpool.”

 

The project has brought together a team of respected local companies, including Cassidy + Ashton as lead architects, F Parkinson Ltd as main contractor, Bev Wood Design for interiors, and Happy Creative leading on branding and marketing. Their combined expertise has played a vital role in bringing The Robinson to life.

Blackpool-based F Parkinsons has delivered substantial social value and community benefit throughout the project, channelling significant spend to local suppliers, employing new apprentices and supporting community projects like the New Langdale Group and Anchorsholme Petanque Club.

Canadian maple panelling was saved and recycled from Blackpool Magistrates Courts reused as part of the interior design.

Shortly open for viewings, The Robinson offers a workspace designed to support the evolving needs of today’s businesses. With a blend of heritage architecture and contemporary design, the building is already attracting interest from entrepreneurs, professional service companies and established organisations.

The popular Blackpool Growth Business Academy will also have a presence on site, providing tailored business support and personalised growth plans and various events.

 

For more information about available space and membership, or to book a private viewing, click here: https://blackpoolunlimited.com/the-robinson/

Blackpool Council has used grant funding to purchase the former post office, a key development site in the town centre, to secure and safeguard its future.  

Previous exploration work undertaken by Ashall Hospitality (Blackpool) LLP to consider the viability of developing an Indigo Hotel at the Grade II listed former Abingdon Street Post Office has now completed, and the scheme will not press ahead in its current proposed format due to cost projections.   

Whilst the current hotel scheme has proved to be unviable, alternative options are being actively explored to repurpose the long-vacant building in a way that both respects the heritage of the site and boost the town centre economy.  

The scheme continues to be supported by £8 million from the UK Government’s Capital Regeneration Funding (CRF) grant. In addition to the purchase of the iconic building, investment has been made through the Phase 1 viability stage, including detailed site condition information that will be vital in shaping future plans. 

Until a viable option that falls within budget is confirmed, essential works will be carried out to prevent further decline. These will focus on making the building secure, wind and watertight, while also enhancing the external appearance on Abingdon Street and Edward Street.  

Blackpool Council, in consultation with Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government (MHCLG), will continue to work on a revised scheme within the approved financial agreements. 

The redevelopment of the former Post Office building remains a key focus within Blackpool’s wider £2bn growth and prosperity plans. The project is planned to create new employment opportunities, support local businesses and enhance the long-term vibrancy of the town centre. 

By safeguarding this important heritage asset and bringing it back into use in the long term, the scheme will deliver lasting benefits for residents, visitors and the wider economy. 

 

Councillor Mark Smith, Cabinet Member for Economy and Built Environment at Blackpool Council, said: 

“Whilst this particular hotel scheme is unfortunately no longer viable, we are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead for this prominent building in the town centre. 

“We’ve done the right thing by checking how affordable the scheme is before starting construction.  

“The surveys we’ve done so far will still be very useful to help us decide on the next steps and how we make sure we that the building continues to have a future that can make Blackpool better. 

“We remain committed to identifying a high-quality solution that brings this landmark building back into use, benefitting local people and businesses, while creating new opportunities for employment and growth.” 

 

This project has received funding through the UK Government Capital Regeneration Fund (CRF).  

People who live in Blackpool are being asked to share views on how to improve neighbourhoods.

Blackpool Council is asking for opinions on the first phase of a major housing regeneration around Central Drive, as part of the Blackpool Central Housing Regeneration Scheme. The council is also asking for views on the wider regeneration framework for central Blackpool.

Phase 1 of the housing regeneration project is funded by £90 million of Government and Homes England funding. It will deliver better homes, greener streets, and improved amenities. The investment will replace poor housing with high-quality homes and safer neighbourhoods.

The housing project is the first phase of a wider regeneration plan for the area. A Regeneration Area Framework covers a much larger part of central Blackpool. It looks at how to create better housing, neighbourhoods, and local facilities.

Local communities have already had their say on the framework. Residents can see what has changed and add any more ideas at the drop-in events in September.

 

Cllr Lynn Williams, Leader of Blackpool Council, said:

“We’re making Blackpool better with new homes and better neighbourhoods. This is a huge opportunity and we want the views of people who live here to shape what that looks like.

“We’ve already had lots of conversations with communities and will continue to do so. These events are for anybody in Blackpool to see the bigger picture and help shape the plans.

“We cannot do this without local input. Residents and businesses are at the heart of these plans, and their feedback will make sure we do what’s best.”

 

Drop-in session dates and venues:

· 23 September – 4:00–6:30pm – Ibbison Community Centre

· 24 September – 9:00–11:00am – Revoe Children’s Centre

· 26 September – 1:00–4:00pm – Revoe Library

 

At these sessions, residents can:

· See and comment on detailed plans for the first phase of works.

· Comment on the wider Regeneration Area Framework.

· See how community feedback has already influenced plans.

 

A short questionnaire will also be available online and a dedicated email and phone line are open for anyone who would like to give feedback.

If you can’t make a drop in sessions give your views and get more information by going to www.blackpool.gov.uk/housingregeneration. Or call 01253 477477 if you have any specific queries.

Support is available for British Sign Language and in other languages

A multi-million pound scheme proposed for Blackpool’s central coastline area will go on display to the public this week.  

The Blackpool Beach Management scheme is a £57m investment into coastal defences, protecting homes and businesses from flooding and securing the future of Blackpool’s much-loved golden sandy beaches.  

The proposals include the construction of rock headlands along the beach, stretching from just south of South Pier to Cocker Square, just north of North Pier. Blackpool Council has been awarded funding for these works from the Environment Agency. 

Blackpool is losing its beaches and unless urgent action is taken, they could be lost forever. As a result of climate change, sand levels are lowering exposing the clay underneath, posing a serious risk to sea defences. The beach provides the first line of defence against coastal erosion and flooding during storms by breaking waves.  

17 rock headlands around 100 metres long will be constructed on the beach and spaced approximately 150 metres apart. 

The rock headlands will create sheltered areas along the coastline, reducing the impact of waves and wind while deflecting tidal currents. This will help trap and retain the natural onshore supply of sand on the upper beach; in turn protecting existing coastal defences and reduce the risks of erosion and flooding. 

Residents, visitors and businesses are invited to view the plans and share their views, ahead of the planning application submission.  

The consultation will open on Tuesday 9 September. There will also be three drop-in sessions for people to learn more about the scheme and speak to the project team. 

The three consultation sessions will be held at the following locations: 

 

• Tuesday 9 September, 10.00am to 4.00pm: Central Library (Brunswick Room) Queen Street, Blackpool, FY1 1PX   

• Friday 19 September, 10.00am to 4.00pm: Solaris Centre (Global Room), New South Promenade, Blackpool, FY4 1RW  

• Evening session (Date and location TBC) 

 

The consultation closes Friday 31 October 2025. 

Cllr Jane Hugo, Blackpool Council cabinet member for climate change, said:

 

“The Blackpool Beach Management scheme is vital for securing Blackpool’s future. 

“Climate change is causing a shift in sand levels causing the beach line to lower. If we don’t act now, Blackpool will lose its sandy beaches for good.  

“I encourage all residents, visitors and business owners to come along to one of our drop-in sessions to view the plans, speak to members of the project team, and engage with the consultation.” 

 

From 9 September to 31 October, the plans will be on display at Central Library during normal library opening hours, with the exception of 19 September and 23 September. The consultation can be completed online by visiting www.blackpool.gov.uk/BBM or by picking up a paper copy and pre-paid envelope from Central Library on Queen Street.  

The Platform is a free service that is dedicated to helping 16–24-year-olds in Blackpool make confident, informed decisions about their future. Whether the focus is on employment, training, education or personal development, The Platform offers a helping hand to local young people.  

With the summer holidays heading to a close, many young people may be considering their next steps following the completion of their studies. For those unsure of the path ahead, The Platform offers dedicated, one-to-one support to help navigate this transition. 

Since its launch, The Platform has created over 1,000 opportunities for local young people, working in partnership with a range of established partners including Blackpool and The Fylde College, Lancashire Mind, and Blackpool FC Community Trust, to name a few – working collaboratively to provide tailored support, helping young people take positive steps towards their future. 

What The Platform offers 

The Platform delivers a wide range of support through flexible, approachable sessions designed to meet the needs of each individual. Services include: 

• Career guidance and planning 

Helping young people explore different job sectors, identifying their skills and interests and creating a clear action plan for their next steps

• CV writing and job application support 

One-to-one help with writing a strong CV, completing job applications and preparing for interviews – ensuring young people feel confident and job-ready 

• College and apprenticeship advice 

Guidance on applying to local colleges or apprenticeship providers – understanding the options available and making informed choices

• Wellbeing and mental health advice
  In partnership with Lancashire Mind and other services, The Platform also supports emotional wellbeing, building confidence, resilience and motivation  
• Access to training opportunities
  Including short courses, employability skills workshops and more – helping young people gain valuable experience 

 

Councillor Kath Benson, Cabinet Member for Young People and Aspiration at Blackpool Council, said: 

“The Platform is an excellent service for anyone aged 16 to 24 in Blackpool who needs support in deciding their next steps.  

“Whether you are looking for work, training, or simply need some guidance, this service offers personalised, one-to-one help that can make a real difference.  

“For those leaving school or college, we know this can be an exciting yet uncertain time. The Platform is here to help you navigate your options, explore opportunities and feel confident about the path ahead. 

“By working with trusted local organisations, The Platform is opening doors and helping to create bright futures for Blackpool’s young people.” 

The Platform is open to anyone aged 16 to 24, living in Blackpool who are currently not in education, employment or training. No referral is needed, and support is provided in a non-judgemental, approachable setting, at a pace that suits the individual. 

The Platform is committed to helping local young people take positive, proactive steps towards a brighter future. 

For those interested in finding out more, or to make an appointment to see the friendly team, please visit: www.blackpool.gov.uk/Platform for more information. 

Seven parks across Blackpool have been awarded the prestigious Green Flag Award, a national benchmark for well-managed parks and green spaces, presented by Keep Britain Tidy. 

The sites are among 2,250 across the UK to receive the Green Flag Award, the international quality mark for parks and green spaces.  

This outstanding achievement – with all seven of Blackpool’s entries receiving awards – highlights the dedication and hard work invested into maintaining the town’s green spaces.  

The success reflects a strong collaboration between Blackpool Council’s Parks and Open Green Spaces Service, Enveco NW Environmental Services and the dedicated efforts of local ‘Friends of’ groups, whose volunteers work regularly to ensure the parks remain safe, welcoming spaces for the whole community. 

New for 2025, five parks received Green Flag Awards, while Devonshire Road Rock Gardens and Highfield Road retained their awards from the previous year.  

Judges praised the newly awarded parks for their strong community focus and excellent management: 

• Anchorsholme Park: “The site features a large, well-maintained inclusive play area demonstrating that all are welcome.” Judges also noted the passion of local stakeholders: “Everybody we met on the day, from Friends groups to Council staff, were passionate about their local park and determined to make it the best it can be.” 

• Crossland Road Park: “The trees are managed proactively and are an important feature of the park, providing shade and habitat for bats and other species.” 

• Kingscote Park: “The park offers different areas and activities to suit a variety of people.” 

• Stanley Park: “This is an extremely large and diverse park with many attractions and sports facilities. The Friends Group in particular is excellent – actively involved in maintaining parts of the park, events, fundraising and helping promote the site. For example, winning the ‘best park’ award three times and the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service.  

• Watson Road Park: “The Friends and volunteers are a credit to the park, which is a lovely green space in a built-up area that should be cherished. It’s great to see the staff interacting with the volunteers.” 

Judges also commended the behind-the-scenes efforts made by the Council’s parks team, noting: “There is clear management commitment to improving parks to Green Flag standard, which is noticeable.” 

Councillor Jane Hugo, Blackpool Council Deputy Leader (Place) and Cabinet Member for Climate Change, commented: 

“To receive Green Flag Awards for all seven of our entries is a fantastic achievement for Blackpool and a testament to the incredible teamwork and community pride that goes into looking after our parks.  

“We are very proud of our green spaces and the strength of the partnerships we’ve built with local volunteers and organisations.

“A huge thank you and well done to everyone who contributes to making these parks places we can all enjoy. 

 “This is a fantastic achievement for Blackpool and a testament to the incredible teamwork and community pride that goes into looking after our parks.”  

Green Flag Award Scheme Manager, Paul Todd MBE, said:  

“Congratulations to everyone involved in the award-winning parks across Blackpool, whose tireless efforts have helped them achieve the high standards required for Green Flag status. 

“Quality parks and green spaces make the country a heathier place to live and work in, and a stronger place in which to invest. 

“Crucially, these parks are vital green spaces for communities in Blackpool to enjoy nature, and during the ongoing cost of living crisis it is a free and safe space for families to socialise. It also provides important opportunities for local people and visitors to reap the physical and mental health benefits of green space.” 

The Green Flag Award scheme, managed by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy under licence from the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government, recognises and rewards well-managed parks and green spaces, setting the benchmark standard for the management of green spaces across the United Kingdom and around the world. 

Blackpool’s most famous landmark, the Blackpool Tower, will be managed by the council’s wholly-owned tourism company, Blackpool Tourism Limited. 

In a ground-breaking move the company is today announcing that it will take over the operation of Blackpool Tower (including Blackpool Tower Eye, Circus, Ballroom and Dungeons) and Madame Tussauds.  

Blackpool Operating Company Limited, which operates Sandcastle Waterpark, has expanded its remit and will now be known as Blackpool Tourism Limited.  The company will take over the management of The Blackpool Tower and Madame Tussauds from Friday 1st August, operating them alongside Sandcastle Waterpark and Showtown Museum.  

These new arrangements will replace the management of these attractions by Merlin Entertainments, which has operated them on the council’s behalf since 2010.  

As part of this change, both parties have also agreed to enter a new partnership to enable Madame Tussauds and The Dungeons to continue to operate, marking the first ever UK franchise agreements for the two iconic brands. 

Blackpool Tourism Limited will operate both attractions under franchise from Merlin, ensuring the ongoing presence of these two popular attractions in the town, as part of the wider family of these iconic brands. 

This transition marks an exciting new chapter for Blackpool’s tourism industry with familiar faces leading the council’s vision for the future of the resort.  

Cllr Lynn Williams, Leader of Blackpool Council, said: “This is an exciting day for Blackpool and the start of a new era for our tourism industry.  

“In 2010, Blackpool Council bought Blackpool Tower bringing it into public ownership for the first time to safeguard the future of our much loved iconic landmark whilst also transforming it into a tourist attraction fit for the 21st century.  

“It was a bold and ambitious move and one that has reaped rewards ever since. It is such a special place and needed to be protected and preserved for future generations.  

“Back in 2010, we did not have the skills or knowledge within the town to redevelop the Tower into a modern attraction. Bringing Merlin Entertainments on board was absolutely the right decision and we have enjoyed a long and successful partnership with them which has brought other quality attractions to the resort. 

“The time has come to reassess our position and determine our future vision for our attractions and the town as whole.  

“The benefits that our amazing attractions bring, will be kept in Blackpool. Our priority is creating jobs for local people, creating a vibrant economy for local businesses and giving millions of visitors a reason to come and stay in Blackpool.”  

Kate Shane has held the role of Managing Director of Blackpool Council’s Leisure Portfolio since last summer. Prior to that she was the Regional Director at Merlin Entertainments.  

Kate Shane, Managing Director of Blackpool Tourism Limited, said: “Bringing all these key attractions under the umbrella of one company is a bold move but the right one to deliver the ambitions of the resort that punches above its weight!” 

“Collaboration will be the golden thread running through the new company, bringing together the resorts amazing tourism businesses, creating compelling reasons to visit and stay in Blackpool ahead of other destinations. We will support the sector to deliver world class experiences, and by working together we will drive awareness to re-engage lapsed visitors and reach those that have yet to see everything that Blackpool has to offer.” 

“Blackpool Tourism Ltd is dedicated to creating local employment opportunities, supporting cultural heritage and delivering tangible social impact, ensuring a sustainable vibrant environment for both our guests and our local communities.” 

Andy Turner, Merlin’s Regional Director (Rest of UK) of Gateway Attractions, added: “Back in 2010, Blackpool Council and Merlin set out a bold ambition to transform the Tower into a visitor attraction the town could be proud of. In parallel, we committed to upgrade a locally-run waxworks into an iconic Madame Tussauds attraction. Over the past 15 years, in close cooperation with the council, we have made significant progress – and laid strong foundations which set these attractions up for long term success, well into the future. 

“We fully support the local authority’s desire to see these attractions return to local management, and we welcome the clear direction the council leadership has provided. 

“Looking ahead, we are delighted to be entering a new partnership with the council to ensure that visitors can continue to enjoy the iconic, immersive experiences which Madame Tussauds and The Dungeons have become known for.  

“Merlin remains absolutely committed to the ongoing success of tourism in Blackpool, not least so that the two brands we are franchising to Blackpool Tourism Ltd can continue to flourish with our creative input. We look forward to continuing to work collaboratively with the council over the months and years ahead.” 

The transition to the new company will be seamless. All existing ticket purchases will be honoured. 

Construction has begun on a new office building for Ministry of Defence (MOD) civil servants as part of Blackpool’s Talbot Gateway redevelopment, announced today at UK REiiF. 

The regeneration programme sees Blackpool Council working with development partner Muse Places and construction company VINCI Building on the new 53,000 sq. Ft MOD building which will hold up to 1,100 staff from Defence Business Services (DBS). 

As MOD’s shared services organisation, DBS provides corporate services across the information and technology, finance, procurement and people function to the whole of Defence, including serving military, veterans and civilian staff, as well as other government departments. The move from a leased site within the local area concludes the consolidation of DBS’ Northwest Estate into a single, purpose-built office owned by the MOD, securing future jobs and saving the taxpayer money long term. 

Representatives from DBS signed the contract for the new building on 31st March 2025 with them coming together last week at a groundbreaking ceremony to mark the start of construction.  

The DBS project is being delivered under the MOD’s Defence Estate Optimisation portfolio, which is investing £5.1Bn in a more modern and sustainable Defence estate. This includes new and refurbished military accommodation and housing for over 40,000 service personnel and their families, as well as technical, training and office space for over 64,000 personnel, including civilian staff. Construction will be managed on behalf of the MOD by the Defence Infrastructure Organisation, working closely with Blackpool Council, development partner Muse Places, main contractor VINCI Building and DBS.  

The building is scheduled for completion in 2027. 

 

Ross Porter, Defence Infrastructure Organisation Programme Manager, said: 

 

“After several years of pre-construction work and a huge collaborative effort from all parties involved, progressing this project to the construction stage is a great milestone to reach.  

“We’re very much looking forward to delivering a first-class office facility for MOD staff in the area, as part of the Defence Estates Optimisation Portfolio.” 

 

Cllr Lynn Williams, Leader of Blackpool Council, said: “This is another major step forward in our plans to make Blackpool better.  

 

“We’re very grateful to government for recognising Blackpool’s economic potential and continuing to invest and help us create quality jobs for local people.  

“Officers from both the council and government have worked exceptionally hard to make this deal possible. With over 8,000 workers and students coming to the town centre in the next few years, this provides a phenomenal opportunity and confidence for local businesses to continue to invest and hire more local people.” 

 

Alan McBride, Technical Director at Muse, said:

 

“It’s great to see work commencing on phase five of Talbot Gateway’s regeneration. This future-proofed, sustainable workspace for the Civil Service will bring increased footfall into the town centre, spur further economic growth in the heart of Blackpool, and build on the momentum we’ve generated alongside our long-standing partners, Blackpool Council, for more than 15 years.” 

 

Gary Hughes VINCI Building’s Regional Director said: 

 

 “We’re delighted to have been appointed on this key project at Talbot Gateway to continue our working partnership with Blackpool Council and Muse. We will ensure we continue to provide local opportunities through the development of our local supply chain, whilst generating significant education and training opportunities with local schools, colleges and education groups as we progress on site”.