Investment plan for Blackpool's Beach House

Proposals have been revealed to extend Blackpool's Beach House restaurant which sits directly on the Promenade overlooking the Irish Sea.

The scheme would see an additional seating area and new toilets added to the building which opened on the seaward side of the Golden Mile in 2012.

Blackpool-based architect Joseph Boniface has submitted designs for an extension to be built on the sunken west side of the existing restaurant, on behalf of applicant Hagop Thchobanian who operates the venue.

It would replace a set of stairs previously used to access an outdoor terrace, and increase the floorspace by about a fifth of the current area.

The toilets would be stepped three-quarters of a storey below the existing level, and a small number of steps would lead to an upper ground level including a semi-enclosed seating area.

The applicant says new toilets are required because the existing facilities are no longer sufficient to serve the bistro and bar.

A heritage statement accompanying the application says: "Although an outstanding piece of architecture the toilet accommodation within the commercial unit attached is no longer sufficient for the user of the space.

"As such this proposal aims to deliver new sanitary accommodation in a sensitive and contextual way.

"The extension is proposed to be located on the west side of the building continuing the line of the terrace and concluding prior to the balcony attached to the Registry Office."

It adds: "To the front of the building sliding balustrades will open up during the summer months to provide a semi- enclosed seating area from which the sea views can be enjoyed."

The Beach House is part of the £2.8m Festival House which was funded through the former North West Development Agency.

The cutting edge design saw solid timber used in the construction, along with gold coloured cladding and stainless steel shingles, while the large windows are designed to maximise views over the sea.

In 2014, repairs were made to the Beach House after it was damaged during winter storms.

Festival House, which is owned by Blackpool Council, also includes the town's tourist information centre and wedding chapel.

The proposals will now go before planners at a future date for consideration.