It was once the site of the bustling Blackpool Central Railway Station, the place which brought millions of tourists to within a stone’s throw from the beach. And in more recent times it has been Central Car Park. Changes are happening again and this week we reported on how work was underway for the first phase of the redevelopment of the area which will see a brand new car park, a Heritage Quarter and other attractions. A huge swathe of the car park has already gone and Bonny Street Market will close at the end of the season.
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A view of Blackpool's Central Car Park ten years ago. Work is now underway to transform the whole area under a £300m development which will se a new car park, heritage quarter and attractions Photo: Bill Johnson
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A different view of the car park with the old Bonny Street police station in the back ground. This was in 2009 Photo: Bill Johnson
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This section of the car park has already gone. The buildings in the background remain Photo: Bill Johnson
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Bonny Street Market on a wind swept winter's day back in 2007. It was to close earlier this year in preparation for the start of the development but was given a reprieve and is enjoying one last season Photo: Bill Johnson
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This was Wilkinson's Yard in the 1930s - long gone. The photo looks towards Bonny Street seen through the archway. These old streets formed part of the triangular area which is now being redeveloped almost a century later. Photo: staff
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The car park was also used for the switch on of Blackpool's Illuminations. It's huge 17 acre site was perfect to pack in the crowds such as this scene in 2003 Photo: National World
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The old King Edward Cinema to the left, the apartments pictured and King Edward pub in 2014. They will remain but will be converted and upgraded into holiday accommodation, restaurants and bars as part of the Heritage Quarter. Photo: Martin Bostock
