Blackpool Council’s executive is being asked to approve the Central Housing Regeneration Area Framework – a long term plan set to transform the heart of Blackpool.
A clear vision is set out by the framework which will see the central regeneration area being transformed into a vibrant, desirable and sustainable neighbourhood, with high quality new and refurbished housing. There will be a mix of house types and streets, creating homes and areas that residents will love and take pride in.
Blackpool Council was awarded £90m back in March this year from central government via Homes England, aimed at tackling housing issues in the inner areas of Blackpool
Three key objectives will underpin the approach to the redevelopment. They are community, desirability and sustainability.
The framework being presented to the council’s executive suggests that central Blackpool should be the initial area of focus for housing regeneration and explains the solid evidence to support that.
The framework also outlines the overarching ambition for transformational change across the area over a 15+ year period.
Lynn Williams, Leader of Blackpool Council said:
“Housing-led regeneration has been our obsession for over 10 years, it is a huge priority for us. It features heavily in our council plan and is also reflected in the local plan policy. Housing regeneration is critical to our ambition to regenerate the whole of Blackpool’s inner areas. “The scale of transformation needed is not to be underestimated. We want to create a mix of high quality homes in safe and welcoming neighbourhoods with good local amenities, green open spaces and places to play and be together. “We want to see communities where people want to live and stay for the long term”.
The framework outlines key design principles including:
- Celebrating Blackpool’s heritage and culture
- Creating building and spaces for a sustainable future
- Housing a new community – transforming the choice and quality of homes
- Celebrating the seaside
- Creating healthy and activity communities – safe streets, green spaces and ease of movement
- Creating a vibrant, diverse and sustainable local centre
Since receiving the funding Initial activity has focused on community engagement.
Nearly 3000 homes have been visited and asked to fill out a questionnaire and share their views. A questionnaire is also available on the council’s website for people to give information and their views. A formal consultation on the next steps is planned for 2025.
