Blackpool Tower deal escapes Osborne’s review
THE £39m deal to take Blackpool Tower, the Winter Gardens and the Golden Mile into public ownership is not on the Government’s list for review.
There has been some speculation that the new Government’s eagerness to slash budgets could derail the scheme which has been funded by a collection of public bodies.
But one of the funders, the Northwest Regional Development Agency (NWDA), has confirmed that the scheme has escaped further scrutiny.
NWDA chief executive Steven Broomhead, said: “It’s very positive news that the Blackpool Leisure Attractions redevelopment is not on the Government’s list for review.
“The significant economic benefits that will be generated as a result of the project make it a compelling case for investment. I’m delighted that it will be going ahead.”
It is understood that the new Government was keen to curb the funding committed by the Labour administration but the deal had already gone through.
The attractions were bought from leisure tycoon Trevor Hemmings was made with the belief that heavy investment in the landmark buildings will secure the long-term future of the area by rejuvenating tourism.
Refurbishment work is now being carried out and a new operator, Merlin Entertainments, will take over day-to-day management in November.
The deal was funded with £14m from the European Regional Development Fund, £7.9m from the NWDA, £10m from Blackpool Council and £7m from the Homes and Communities Agency. As well as buying the attractions, the funding will also be used for a £10m programme of repairs for the Tower.
