Today, Michael Gove has announced a significant project to help with the regeneration of Blackpool, thanks to levelling up funding.
The project will be centred around the relocation of the Magistrates and County Courts, which will unlock £300 million worth of private sector-led regeneration. This regeneration will be done through new leisure facilities, job creation and the boosting of tourism.
Michael Gove, Levelling Up Secretary, said:
“Blackpool is a town full of life, energy, and immense potential but for too long it has been overlooked and its communities undervalued. Our £40 million levelling up investment will revitalise this great town by delivering much-needed homes, more jobs and new opportunities for local people.”
The original project was delayed due to a lack of funding in moving the Magistrates and County Courts away from the site that has been proposed for the new regeneration project, which could have put the entire plan in jeopardy. The commitment of £40 million of funding from the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities means that the project can now go ahead as planned.
An estimated 1,000 jobs are to be created by the Blackpool Central scheme, with an increase of ann additional 600,000 tourists travelling to the seaside town every year.
Leader of Blackpool Council, Cllr Lynn Williams, said:
“We are delighted by the support to enable our excited scheme to go ahead. This is a real example of joined-up Government at its very best with the objectives off the Government, Ministry of Justice, Department for Levelling Up, Blackpool Council and the developer Nikal all being met as a result off this welcome action by the Secretary of State.
“The funding will enable this huge development in the heart of Blackpool to bring jobs, investment and visitors to our town. When finished, the scheme will be amazing future-proofed attraction for all to enjoy for many years to come.”
