10 July 2008
Progress report on a better Blackpool
Government Office for the North West today published the first
in a series of progress reports on the regeneration of Blackpool
following its failed casino bid.
The report, by Liz Meek, Regional Director of the Government
Office for the North West, was commissioned by Communities
Secretary Hazel Blears to measure progress against the
recommendations of the Blackpool Task Force published last
year.
The Task Force was chaired by Bryan Gray, Chair of the NWDA and
included representatives from the Government Office for the North
West, Blackpool Council, the urban regeneration company ReBlackpool
and national regeneration agency English Partnerships.
Earlier this week ReBlackpool appointed Sir Howard Bernstein as
its new chair to help drive forward the delivery and implementation
of the Blackpool Masterplan
Liz Meek said:
“Blackpool has a special place in the nation’s hearts. We want
the town to keep that hold on our affection while equipping it for
its future as a 21st century resort.
“While it is clear that while Blackpool faces many challenges
the foundations for a successful future are being laid. Sir
Howard’s appointment is an indication of the sort of determination
that exists at national, regional and local level to transform
Blackpool’s fortunes.
“Tourism, housing, economic development and transport work is
being taken forward with urgency. A strong and experienced team is
now in place at ReBlackpool, the town’s regeneration agency. The
regional agencies and central government are working together to
deliver real change for the people of Blackpool.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank the members of
the Task Force and those who support them for their hard work in
making sure the country’s top seaside resort has a positive future
for the people who live and work there.”
Bryan Gray, Chair of the NWDA ,said:
“Blackpool’s needs must be met by continuing to work in
partnership, and the first Task Force Report demonstrates the real
actions being taken by partners at local, regional and national
level to achieve this.
"Whilst good progress has been made so far, it is clear that we
need to continue to prioritise Blackpool’s social and economic
regeneration. The NWDA will continue to invest both directly, and
through ReBlackpool, in projects which will benefit residents and
develop Blackpool into a resort attractive to visitors and
investors.”
Cllr Peter Callow, Leader Blackpool Council said:
“We are pleased with the progress made as a result of the
Taskforce report and the support we have received from Government
Office Northwest. Blackpool is at the start of a journey to
become a world class destination for both visitors and residents
and therefore we recognise that there is still much hard work and
investment needed. The town has a very proud heritage and
it’s gratifying to know that we are all working together to ensure
that Blackpool has a very positive future.”
Doug Garrett, Chief Executive at ReBlackpool commented:
"ReBlackpool welcomes the continual dialogue we now have with
central government and hope to build on the successes of the
schemes included within the Taskforce Report. We have developed
strong relationships with the private sector and other partners and
are working together to secure the economic prosperity of the
town."
Paul Spooner, English Partnerships’ Regional Director, said:
“English Partnerships is working closely with Blackpool Council
and the Task Force partners. We are on course to deliver
significant new and affordable housing opportunities and the
successful regeneration of both the town and resort.”
Key initiatives include:
• Government Office for the North West working with
partners including the Northwest Development Agency to broaden
Blackpool’s appeal to a wider range of visitors.
• Government investment of £35 million through English
Partnerships to be delivered by ReBlackpool. Consideration is being
given to replacing some sea front by mixed developments including
hotel, residential, commercial and retail.
• ReBlackpool’s blueprint for the creation of a business
district is forging ahead through the £220 million Talbot Gateway
development.
• Blackpool and Fylde College is planning £90 million
relocation to the town centre.
• The NWDA, through ReBlackpool, and the Higher Education
Funding Council are funding a £10 million development of higher
education with Blackpool and Fylde College.
Ends
Note to Editors
A copy of the report Progress on Blackpool Task Force
Recommendations is available on request.
Blackpool Task Force was formed in March 2007 following a
request from Government to look into long term regeneration
plans.
For further information: Clive Naish, Regional Information
Officer
Tel: 0161 952 4517