Developers unveil plan for new Blackpool town centre visitor attraction

Developers have unveiled proposals for a new family attraction in the heart of Blackpool.
Plans have been revealed for the basement of the former BHS storePlans have been revealed for the basement of the former BHS store
Plans have been revealed for the basement of the former BHS store

Developers have unveiled proposals for a new family attraction in the heart of Blackpool.

The scheme would see an indoor leisure centre created in the basement of the former BHS store on Church Street if it gets the go ahead.

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Coventry-based Spencer Branagh has submitted a planning application to Blackpool Council seeking approval to change the use of the site from retail to leisure.

He wants to use the space for activities including inflatables, tubing slides and electric karting. A cafe bar is also proposed.

Documents accompanying the application says the venture will occupy what is considered less desirable retail space in the basement, and would attract visitors to the area including to surrounding shops.

A design statement says: "The proposal seeks to create an innovative development which will appeal to a broad range of people and ages as well as draw people into the town centre."

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It adds it will "provide a year-round attraction which has the potential to become a wider catalyst for regeneration to improve the visitor experience.​"

The proposed development would operate from 10am to midnight, open year round and is expected to create 20 full-time jobs.

The store has been closed since BHS stopped trading in 2016, but budget retailer B&M Bargains has already taken over 61,000 square feet of space in the building and is due to open its doors on Friday.