Background on the Project
The project is part of Blackpool’s plan to improve housing, public space, and employment opportunities along Central Drive. A new sports village is being planned for a Blackpool community where residents fear they could soon be made homeless.
Blackpool Council is working alongside Blackpool Football Club and its Community Trust to deliver the facility as part of a wider vision to regenerate the area around Central Drive. The proposed development includes two seven-a-side football pitches, a multi-use games area, and two padel courts for public use.
Funding and Development Details
The scheme has been backed with £6.5 million from the UK Government’s Town Deal. Planning permission has also been granted to demolish existing buildings to allow for improvements to Blackpool Football Club’s East Stand. Phase one of the upgrade to the East Stand was completed last summer, which included the installation of a new TV gantry and press facilities.
However, the regeneration scheme could see up to 400 homes demolished in the Revoe area, raising significant concerns among local residents. Alan Jones, a local resident, expressed frustration, stating, “They have not provided any information whatsoever… they are not making arrangements for alternative housing, which essentially leaves everyone homeless.”
Cllr Lynn Williams highlighted the density of the area, noting, “Central Drive is one of the most densely populated areas outside London.” This statement underscores the potential impact on the community should the project proceed as planned.
In contrast, Councillor Mark Smith emphasized the council’s commitment to improving the area, stating, “This council is committed to making Blackpool better and restoring Central Drive back to its heyday as an area where local people want to live and spend time in.” This reflects a tension between community concerns and the council’s vision for regeneration.
As the project moves forward, observers are closely watching how the council will address the housing concerns raised by residents. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the next steps in the development and how the council plans to mitigate the impact on those potentially displaced by the project.
