More road closures in Blackpool town centre announced as work continues

Blackpool’s main town centre road, Talbot Road, will remain closed between the promenade and Abingdon Street until August 31 - and the junction with Abingdon Street will be closed from July 18 until August 22.

And the section of Talbot Road between Abingdon Street and Dickson Road will be closed from September 3 to November 30.

Blackpool Council says the town’s overall project will result in better public transport, modern streets, new hotels and conference centre and make Blackpool a more attractive place.

And the message remains the same - the long-term gain will be worth the short-term pain.

Talbot Road has been dug up and blocked off at various points since late last year.

It is paving the way for one of the most ambitious schemes, the new link-up between Blackpool North railway and the promenade, with the town’s iconic tramway being extended down Talbot Road.

Although the work is being phased to cause minimum inconvenience, some shops around the town centre have complained they have borne the brunt of the traffic disruption, and residents have been frustrated as well.

But Blackpool Council insists the improvements to the town will make it well worth it in the long term.

Coun Fred Jackson, Blackpool Council Cabinet Member responsible for highways, said: “All of the work is being carried out in phases to minimise disruption and I am pleased with the work achieved to date.

“There may be some inconvenience but the longer term results will make such a positive difference to Blackpool.

“The transformation will deliver so many benefits for both residents and visitors alike.”