I was worried about Revoe regeneration scheme in Blackpool at first but it worked out for me

A Blackpool man says he hasn’t looked back since he was supported to move house as part of plans to regenerate the Revoe area.

The ambitious regeneration scheme known as the Blackpool Central Housing Regeneration Scheme is aimed at transforming one of the most deprived areas of the country.

The proposals to demolish 300 houses and rebuild 230 modern new ones, along with green spaces, have not pleased everyone. They have led to placard-waving protests from some of those living there who don’t want to see their homes bulldozed. They have vowed to fight the proposals all the way.

But 29-year-old Scott Southern says moving houses has worked out better than he hoped. He has moved to a two-bed maisonette in South Shore, leaving behind his one-bed flat on Central Drive.

Scott, who works for Tesco, received more than £8,000 in home loss compensation and disturbance costs.

He used the money to furnish his new property, making the place quickly feel like home and giving him breathing space with his earnings each month.

Scott’s experience

He said: “I was worried about it all at first, thinking ‘could I end up homeless?’ but I couldn’t fault the support I’ve had. I’m getting so much more for my money now.

“I’ve kitted the place out – new appliances, new furniture – and none of it’s on finance. Being able to buy things outright was nice; not having debt hanging over me.

“Now I can put my wages towards other things in life – a day out or a little holiday – instead of monthly payments.”

Blackpool Council has lodged a hybrid planning application for a £90m project to restore Central Drive to its heyday.

Under the proposals, 300 properties in a densely populated area will be demolished to make way for 230 energy-efficient homes, which the council aims to be for social housing. The plans also include creating new green spaces, community facilities, flexible workspaces and shops.

Scott says: “At first, it did unsettle me. But my landlord reassured me and told me about people who’ve found a better lifestyle from their moves too, and all that calmed me down.

“At first I didn’t want to move too far from where I was, but when I thought about it, my sleep was knackered from years living on a busy main road, with sirens and things going off every other night. So I decided I wanted a change of scenery.

“Now I’m in a quiet area where the only thing you really hear is kids playing.”.

Scott said: “ I think the whole regeneration will be good for the area. More greenery and more parks for kids is a good thing.

“I’d say to others, the grass might actually be greener. So go for it, don’t just sit and worry, ask for help, and you’ll get it.”

Cllr Dave Flanagan, Blackpool Council’s cabinet member for housing, said: “The central housing regeneration scheme is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform an area of Blackpool that we can all see needs investment. We’ve delivered transformational schemes in Layton and Grange Park and the positives are clear to see in those communities. Revoe residents deserve the same.

“Scott’s story shows that people don’t have to wait to feel the benefits of our ambitions, though. He’s already enjoying a better home and eased finances, and all the extra benefits that come with that.

“We understand the plans have caused anxiety for some residents but I hope Scott’s experience shows the breadth of support that is available.

“I hope he will have many happy years in his new home and thrive in the new setting.”