Blackpool Council unveils major plans to improve beloved Stanley Park for residents and hire new park ranger

Blackpool Council has unveiled a new plan to tackle ‘upsetting’ issues at Stanley Park and restore the beloved town centre green space to its rightful place as a gem in Blackpool’s crown.

Amid a litany of animal protection issues, fishing concerns, and incidents of anti-social behaviour, Blackpool Council has outlined a proactive new plan based on ‘effective enforcement, education and partnership working’ to tackle problems at Stanley Park and ensure it remains a place of which the town can be proud.

With Stanley Park previously subjected to a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO), the council’s actions include an application to hire a dedicated new park ranger, creating an angling club to promote responsible fishing, and installing new signage.

Having played host to a royal visit last month after the arrival of Prince Edward, Stanley Park also recently hosted a major celebration to ring-in its 100th anniversary following a massive £500,000 investment from the council. Now new plans have emerged to ensure that the park remains safe and welcoming for generations to come.

The initiative comes after Brambles Wildlife Charity urged the council to fix the ‘dire situation’ at Stanley Park, raising concerns about anti-social behaviour, littering, illegal fishing, and wildlife harm. Councillor Jane Hugo - Deputy Leader (Place) and Cabinet Member for Climate Change - has also raised concerns regarding a lack of enforcement with regards to the PSPO.

“I understand how upsetting it can be to see wildlife harmed and we are committed to making meaningful improvements through stronger enforcement, education and community involvement,” said Cllr Hugo. “Whilst some residents understandably favour a complete [fishing] ban, we recognise that a ban alone may not resolve the problems without effective enforcement.”

In a statement, Blackpool Council said that it is ‘strengthening its approach to wildlife protection, responsible fishing and anti-social behaviour at Stanley Park’ after ‘recognising residents’ concerns about injured birds and discarded fishing tackle’.

With a core aim of protecting wildlife and ensuring the park remains an enjoyable space for everyone, the council said that - while the PSPO was introduced in 2023 alongside the suspension of fishing in 2024 due to concerns about discarded tackle - consultations have shown that retaining controlled opportunities to fish in designated area is preferred.

“A combination of clear rules, enforcement and practical action is essential,” said a council statement. “A dedicated Wildlife Officer already patrols the area, removes discarded tackle, supports wildlife rescues and addresses fishing outside permitted areas.

“However, one person alone cannot manage the situation 24 hours a day, particularly as we are trialling extended evening opening hours so more people can enjoy the recent £500,000 investment for the 100th anniversary and the new lighting.”

The council said their next step would be to make the park even better, focusing on the following aspects:

• Installing clearer signage identifying fishing and no-fishing areas and explaining how to report wildlife in distress.
• Establishing a fishing club to promote responsible fishing.
• Working with the Youth Service to encourage responsible fishing and greater awareness of wildlife conservation.
• Making the case for a Park Ranger to work alongside the Wildlife Officer.
• Working with Friends of Stanley Park, Greenwave and volunteers to improve the park and protect its wildlife.

The current PSPO for the park is due for renewal, and Blackpool Council is inviting residents to share their views on tackling anti-social and harmful behaviour across Blackpool’s parks and green spaces.

More information on the PSPO and opportunities to share your views can be found here