Blackpool’s Talbot Gateway scheme gets go-ahead

A £220m regeneration scheme for Blackpool was last night approved by council planners.

Muse Developments’ Talbot Gateway mixed-use scheme will regenerate the north east part of the town centre, around Blackpool North Station and Talbot Road.

It comprises more than 330,000 sq ft of office and business space including new council offices, a 90,000 sq ft supermarket, four hotels, shops, cafes and restaurants. The centrepiece of the 25-acre scheme will be a pedestrian friendly public square opposite the station.

Residential units and a new doctor’s surgery are also planned as part of the scheme.

Muse is aiming to start on site with the first phase in 2011. It will include the supermarket, council offices, public realm improvements and infrastructure works.

Mike Horner, regional director at Muse, said: “The Talbot Gateway development is a key component of the new era which Blackpool is facing and we are delighted that the application has been recommended for approval. The development will completely transform this part of Blackpool, providing a much needed catalyst for the ongoing regeneration of the town centre.

“The creation of a vibrant new commercial district around the train station with supporting retail and leisure facilities, as well as huge improvements to the public realm, will create hundreds of new jobs and retain many successful businesses in the town centre. It will also help attract new investment, and new occupiers and visitors to the town.”

The scheme will be delivered in partnership with Blackpool Council, urban regeneration company ReBlackpool and the Northwest Regional Development Agency.