Blackpool Council Warns £65m Regeneration Project Faces Jeopardy

A public inquiry has heard that a £65 million regeneration initiative situated in central Blackpool is jeopardized if authorization to clear the necessary land for its development is withheld. Nick Gerrard, a member of Blackpool Council’s growth and prosperity team, cautioned that proposals for a “multiversity” education hub within the resort would necessitate a complete re-evaluation, stating they would have to “go back to the drawing board”. The inquiry is currently reviewing Blackpool Council’s application to obtain a compulsory purchase order (CPO) for a parcel of land located between Cookson Street, Milbourne Street, George Street, and Grosvenor Street. Phillip Ware, an independent planning inspector, is conducting proceedings at the town’s Imperial Hotel and is also evaluating 13 objections lodged against the proposed scheme. Mr. Gerrard stated that the initial financial allocation for the redevelopment proposals comprised £40 million from the government’s Levelling Up Fund, £16 million from Blackpool Council, and £9 million designated for property acquisitions. Blackpool and The Fylde College, slated to operate the multiversity, is committed to reimbursing the £16 million to the council. Should the CPO receive confirmation, construction activities are scheduled to commence without delay, with the inaugural student intake anticipated in September 2027. However, Mr. Gerrard issued a warning: “If we delay, we are going to be faced with rising costs and are going to have to redesign the budget.” He further added, “If this scheme doesn’t come forward here, we will have to go back to the drawing board.” Blackpool Council currently possesses ownership of 70% of the properties required for the development, yet negotiations have encountered impasses in certain cases. Consequently, the local authority is pursuing the CPO. Opponents, including George Whyte from George Street, contend that the council ought to have evaluated an alternative location, specifically land on Talbot Road, which has since been designated for new office construction. Nevertheless, Mr. Gerrard asserted that a comprehensive evaluation process determined the initial site to be the most suitable choice, citing its proximity to the Talbot Gateway Central Business District and public transportation. Previously, Sarah Reid KC, who initiated proceedings representing the council, stated that a “compelling public interest” supported the CPO. She explained that the multiversity is intended to equip residents with valuable skills and employment prospects in a town characterized by unfavorable educational results. The hearing is anticipated to conclude on Thursday before resuming on December 3rd, when additional evidence will be presented by Blackpool Council, Blackpool and the Fylde College, architects, planners, and the objectors. A final decision is projected for announcement in the early part of next year.