Last year, Blackpool Council was awarded £90 million from the Central Government via Homes England to address the significant and longstanding issue of housing quality in the inner areas of Blackpool. This vital funding will support a comprehensive central housing regeneration scheme aimed at transforming the area with modern, affordable housing and local amenities.
The ambitious regeneration programme will replace old, substandard housing with high-quality, sustainable neighbourhoods that meet the diverse needs of the local community.
Over the next 15-20 years, this initiative will serve as a catalyst for attracting much-needed private investment and development, fostering a vibrant and thriving community.
The Council’s shareholder committee met on the 4th of March and approved the “red line” area which includes just over 350 properties. The approval of the area now means that detailed engagement with residents and business occupiers within the identified area can begin. Approval will also enable formal contact with owners of land and property within the area to start negotiations to buy land and property by agreement.
The committee approved that parts of Ashton Road, Central Drive, Chadwick Street, Erdington Road, Grasmere Road, Harrison Street, Kent Road, Montrose Avenue, Princess Street, Rigby Road, Rydal Avenue and Salthouse Avenue are all within the redline boundary.
Those that live or have businesses in the affected area have received a hand delivered letter letting them know that they are in the area and providing information on next steps and contact details of engagement officers.
Initially there will be no immediate change, this is a long term regeneration scheme and the houses within the area will not be required immediately.
Councillor Lynn Williams, Leader of Blackpool Council said:
“Being able to share the area we intend to direct the first phase of funding toward marks a significant milestone for Blackpool – and is important information for local residents, property and business owners who are well aware that there is a plan for investment and transformation in the area.
“Our goal in the long term is to create new neighbourhoods that not only provide quality housing but also encourage private sector development and investment. This regeneration programme will play a crucial role in revitalising our community and improving the quality of life for our residents.
“We recognise that people who are finding out that their home or business is in the red line area will want further information about “what next” and I want to reassure them personally that we are sharing this information as early as we are able and in doing so, are able to say to people that nothing will change in the coming weeks and even months, this is the very start of our work to explore buying properties in the area by consent.
“Our team have invited those that are directly affected to drop in events to talk through any anxieties they may have. Where we can’t answer a question on the day, we will ensure people get an answer as soon as possible.
“The housing-led regeneration programme will focus on creating a mix of housing types to cater to various needs, ensuring that the new developments are inclusive and sustainable.
“We have already delivered hundreds of quality, affordable, new homes across Blackpool, with Phase 3 of Foxhall Village delivering them to the Revoe area too. The Council is committed to working closely with residents, stakeholders, and private investors to bring this vision to life.”
A planning application is expected sometime in the summer.
For those that live within the area, have a business or own a property there and would like to speak to someone they can call (01253) 477477 and ask for the central housing engagement team or email housingcentralregen@blackpool.gov.uk.
