Building firm proud to start work on Blackpool's Talbot Gateway hotel

The Stirling-based firm has been appointed as main contractor having secured a £21m contract for the work starting this month.

Phase 2 of the Talbot Gateway project will see the demolition of the existing Wilko store, the completion of a new tramway interchange at Blackpool North Station, a new underpass, the creation of a Holiday Inn hotel and restaurant as well as new retail outlets.

Robertson will begin the demolition works this week, with work due to commence on the other elements of the project between October of this year and January 2021. The construction programme is expected to take around two years to complete.

Dirk Pittaway, managing director of Robertson North West, said: “Talbot Gateway’s regeneration continues to gather pace and as a growing business in the region we are thrilled to be playing our part. Robertson has significant experience in the hotels sector and we will use that to deliver a facility that is best in class.

“We will work closely throughout with Blackpool Council and Muse Developments, who have both shown real commitment and drive in continuing to progress the project during recent months. Clear procedures, including social distancing, will be in place to ensure the safety of everyone involved on site.

“We will also put local people at the centre of the project to ensure the wider community can benefit. Indeed, we’ve already started to work with the local college, with the aim of providing real opportunities to people throughout the project and beyond.”

Coun Simon Blackburn, Executive Leader of Blackpool Council, said: “The team have been working tirelessly around the clock to ensure that the delivery of this flagship commercial development stays on course and goes ahead as planned.

"We are confident that all the correct procedures have been put in place to secure the health and safety of all the construction workers, which is our top priority at this critical time.

“Phase Two Talbot Gateway will transform this key entrance into Blackpool and we are delighted to be one step closer to realising our long term ambitions for the town.”

Blackpool Council has entered into a franchise agreement for the 144 bedroom Holiday Inn, due to open in 2022, creating 50 jobs.