Framework goes up on multi-million pound new Blackpool complex

Blackpool's £25m new conference centre is taking shape with steelwork for the frame of the building now in place.
Steel work in place at the new conference centreSteel work in place at the new conference centre
Steel work in place at the new conference centre

Work began on the addition to the council-owned Winter Gardens at the start of the year, with piling to support the foundations completed in May.

The scheme, which will mean the complex will be able to hold up to 7,000 delegates in total, is due to be completed by next spring.

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The cost is being met through £15m from the government’s Growth Deal, £7m from Blackpool Council, and £2.9m from the Coastal Communities Fund (also government funding).

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Blackpool Council has since added a further undisclosed sum to its financial contribution after it emerged the cost of the project had increased due repairs required on existing facades where the conference centre will attach to the Victorian buildings.

The new complex is the biggest addition to the Winter Gardens for around 80 years.

Coun Mark Smith, Talbot ward councillor and cabinet member for regeneration, enterprise and economic development, said: "It is fantastic to see progress continuing on the new conference centre which is taking shape in Blackpool.

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"It is going to be a great enhancement to the facilities we have already got.

"I can't wait to see it all finished, and we're going to see landscaping of this area as well with trees being put in, which will also enhance this part of town."

Plans for a three-to-five storey hotel on land between Leopold Grove, Adelaide Street and Alfred Street that would connect directly with the new conference centre were also approved by the council in June.