Blackpool sets up trust for Winter Gardens

BLACKPOOL Council has set up a new not-for-profit company to support the development of its Victorian Winter Gardens complex.

Although there are currently a number of funding streams in place to support the Grade II* listed complex, some of these will disappear next year following the abolition of the North West Regional Development Agency.

The council said that the formation of a trust would provide a “sound external body” operating independently of it.

The new company is due to launch at the end of the month at a charity dinner, which will also feature an auction aimed at kick-starting fundraising efforts. Items under the hammer will include original posters and memorabilia publicising its attractions from the 1930s and the 1950s.

Cabinet member for tourism and culture, Councillor Graham Cain, said: “Not only will the new charity help us to raise much needed funds for the Winter Gardens, it will also provide local people with a way of getting involved.

“So many local residents have expressed a desire to help make the Winter Gardens the very special place that they remember. This will give people a chance to get involved, whether through fundraising, or by taking part in some of the wonderful cultural events and activities which the charity will help to support – from tours of the building, to new exhibitions, to creative activities for local schoolchildren.”

The Winter Gardens project has received £14m of funding from the European Regional Development Fund, £7.9m from the North West Development Agency and £7m from the Homes & Communities Agency.

Nick Brooks-Sykes, director of tourism at the NWDA, said: “As an internationally recognised landmark, the Winter Gardens is a key asset for Blackpool.
“The major redevelopment and restoration of the town will drive investment, support tourism, boost jobs and improve economic conditions. I am pleased this activity will continue with the establishment of the charity.”