Decision made on plans to revamp North Pier’s former Merrie England Bar in Blackpool
The former Merrie England Bar at the front of Blackpool’s famous North Pier is set to be transformed with a smart new new makeover.
An application lodged with Blackpool Council’s planners was approved on November 21 by delegated decision, paving the way for a total transformation of the front of the pier.
.jpeg?crop=3:2,smart&trim=&width=640&quality=65)
Plans submitted on behalf of the Pier Company were seeking approval for internal and external refurbishment works to include removal of existing signage, render to front elevation, new windows and doors to the front elevation.
.jpeg?crop=3:2,smart&trim=&width=640&quality=65)
Works would also include repainting of metal work and new boundary treatment and decking to the front external seating area.
Thre will also be the installation of nine new lantern rooflights, new windows and timber and zinc cladding to north and west elevations.
While the front section of the premises is still in use, the majority of the premises to the rear is vacant.
A statement by B;ackpool’s planning officer says: “ Overall, the forecourt proposals would offer a notable improvement over the existing situation which is lawful and therefore a valid fallback position.
“The alterations would be part of the wider scheme to redevelop that section of the Pier as opposed to a piecemeal addition or expansion. The proposals would have a positive effect on the character, appearance or significance of the Grade II listed building and its setting and would align with the desirability to retain the significant heritage asset.”
North Pier was built in the 1860’s, and is the oldest and longest of the three piers. The pier is designated by English Heritage as a Grade II listed in part due to its status as the oldest surviving pier created by Eugenius Birch. The pier was officially opened in a grand ceremony on 21 May 1863, attended by more than 20,000 visitors.
The Merrie England Bar was built onto the front of the pier around 100 years later, in the 1960s but in more recent times has closed.
A design and access statement by Joseph Boniface Architects Ltd said: “ As part of the brief, the applicant wishes to create a new identity for the new bar, one that is far removed from the appearance of the former Merrie England.
“To do this, a new glazed lantern rooflight has been designed which sits behind the existing steel archway acting as a focal point from across Talbot Square, particularly at night when it is lit from within.”