'Blackpool never settles for thinking small' - Chris Webb MP ready to work with council on 'integral' arena

Chris Webb says that he is ‘optimistic’ about the future of the proposed Blackpool Arena as he continues to work with the council and other partners ahead of a final decision on the project.

Earlier this week, new design images of the arena were released by architect Harry Carter, who also confirmed that detailed architectural modelling, preliminary capacity studies and discussions with potential industry partners are now underway.

Blackpool South MP Chris Webb has reacted positively to Mr Carter’s designs and reiterated his support for the arena proposal, adding that the venue could be an ‘integral’ part of the town’s future.

“Harry Carter’s new designs show what a truly modern arena in Blackpool could look like, that can attract major concerts, comedy shows, sporting events and exhibitions, as well as tap into the growing e-sports market,” he said.

“Blackpool has never been a town that settles for thinking small. Our UK City of Culture bid is about showing Blackpool in a new light, building on our proud history of entertainment and looking ahead to what we can become.

“An arena could be an integral part of that future,” Mr Webb added. “The council has made clear that an arena remains a potential option and I stand ready to work with them and others to help make it a reality.”

Blackpool Council has confirmed plans for the arena remain on the table, adding that they are currently exploring ‘a range of possibilities’ for the Blackpool Central site.

Cllr Mark Smith, Blackpool Council’s Cabinet Member for Economy and Built Environment, told the Gazette: "Blackpool Central remains one of the most significant regeneration opportunities in the town and we are continuing to work with potential investors and developers to explore a range of possibilities for the site.

“An arena has already been the subject of discussions with developers and we have not ruled it out, however it is just one example of the type of ambitious development that could help transform the site.

"Our focus remains on identifying the right development and investment partner for Blackpool Central, and that process must come before decisions are made on the specific details of any future development. Work is continuing to progress on the next stage of that process, with plans to go out to tender later this year.

“Further details will be announced once they are finalised."

A date for a decision on the future of the Blackpool Central site remains unknown, with other proposals for the space including a motorhome park and leisure centre. Despite the uncertainty surrounding the plans, Chris Webb remains hopeful that the arena project will go ahead.

“I’ve always been clear that any proposal must deliver year-round use and be commercially viable,” the MP added. “Having secured £20 million towards the cost of building an arena, this is an important first step.

“I’m optimistic we can find the right partners, who back our vision to put forward a strong, financially viable proposal for the council to consider for the Blackpool Central site.”