Ambitious vision for '˜destination' hotel on Blackpool's Golden Mile

Developers today unveiled what they hope will be a '˜destination' hotel on Blackpool's famous Golden Mile.
An artists impression of the proposed Sands Hotel on Central Promenade, BlackpoolAn artists impression of the proposed Sands Hotel on Central Promenade, Blackpool
An artists impression of the proposed Sands Hotel on Central Promenade, Blackpool

Investors behind the multi-million pound proposal to build a three-storey extension on top of the current Sands entertainment venue on Central Promenade have revealed updated designs for the project.

Glazed walls will be used to wrap around the existing concrete and brick front of the building to create a contemporary landmark overlooking the sea.

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The scheme already has outline planning permission but the latest submission is to agree ‘reserved matters’ setting out the full vision for the first time.

An artists impression of the proposed Sands Hotel on Central Promenade, BlackpoolAn artists impression of the proposed Sands Hotel on Central Promenade, Blackpool
An artists impression of the proposed Sands Hotel on Central Promenade, Blackpool

Neil Ainsworth, architect at the Lancashire-based Frank Whittle Partnership which has produced the design, said the hotel would create a “real destination point for tourism in Blackpool”.

He added: “Our design for the hotel is heavily influenced by the rich heritage of the site both today and in the past.

“We have created a modern building that will be a real addition to the famous seafront and its iconic buildings like the Tower and which both preserves and enhances the unique character of the Prom.

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“The aim is to create a defined yet minimalistic addition to the promenade skyline.

An artists impression of the proposed Sands Hotel on Central Promenade, BlackpoolAn artists impression of the proposed Sands Hotel on Central Promenade, Blackpool
An artists impression of the proposed Sands Hotel on Central Promenade, Blackpool

“The seafront elevation is almost crystal-like in its appearance with a highly reflective skin changing appearance depending on weather conditions.

“The stunning views will make the Sands Venue Resort and Hotel a real destination point for the town.”

It is proposed to build a single storey side extension and a three-storey extension to the roof to create third, fourth and fifth floors. There will be shops and a hotel reception on the ground floor, with hotel accommodation above comprising 96 en-suite bedrooms including a number overlooking a new glazed atrium.

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The plans also include a basement car park for 55 cars and the demolition of the foot bridge over Bank Hey Street.

An artists impression of the proposed Sands Hotel on Central Promenade, BlackpoolAn artists impression of the proposed Sands Hotel on Central Promenade, Blackpool
An artists impression of the proposed Sands Hotel on Central Promenade, Blackpool

A design statement accompanying the latest application says “large penthouse suites on the corner aspects of the hotel will provide stunning views out over the Promenade and the Irish Sea”.

It adds the proposed atrium will provide “a unique and attractive break out space” with screening techniques including foliage and water walls.

The site was previously occupied by The Palatine Hotel before it was knocked down in the 1970s to make way for the present-day structure which was once home to the famous Palace nightclub.

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Businessman Peter Swann, who operates The Sands which is already a popular live entertainment and dining venue, has previ ously said he wants to create luxury accommodation.

An artists impression of the proposed Sands Hotel on Central Promenade, BlackpoolAn artists impression of the proposed Sands Hotel on Central Promenade, Blackpool
An artists impression of the proposed Sands Hotel on Central Promenade, Blackpool

When the scheme first emerged last year, he said: “Our aim is to create a very special luxury hotel that will be a real boost to the town’s visitor economy and points the way ahead for the resort in terms of the standards it has to reach.”

He is also behind plans to relocate the current Wilko store on Talbot Road to a site on Tower Street which would include a 56-bedroom hotel.

The Sands scheme will go before town hall planners at a future date.