Development on Blackpool Prom approved

Investment is proposed in a string of units including Gaiety's karaoke bar between Yorkshire Street, Bairstow Street and Foxhall Road.

Applicant DYGO, based in Church Street, submitted plans with Blackpool Council last autumn which include creating a first floor restaurant and bar with an external balcony.

Since then revisions have been made to the scheme following negotiations with town hall planners seeking the best design for the site.

A report by planners, who approved the application using delegated powers, says: "Overall the works proposed would give the building a far better presence in the streetscene and a far more coherent appearance.

"The works to the Promenade frontage in particular would significantly improve its appearance and the contribution it makes to the quality of this section.

"On balance it is considered the scheme proposed would set an acceptable standard for future improvement works in the area."

It is proposed to refurbish the external facade of the building at both ground and first floor levels.

A design brief accompanying the application says : “The client intends to undertake a substantial refurbishment that will encourage a vibrant, mixed use in the building and compliment these works to the Promenade.”

The block currently contains a mixture of shops, food outlets and licensed premises.

Gaiety’s, which has a double fronted access onto the Promenade and Foxhall Road is the largest use on the ground floor.

It is proposed to create a more uniform development using grey toned cladding for the site south of Central Pier.

The design document adds: “It is the intention that this facelift will create a significant enhancement to the building and street scene.”