Stunning new images of world-class 20,000-seater Blackpool Arena revealed amid local hope for mega-project

A major building consultancy has unveiled new images of a proposed 20,000-seat arena for Blackpool, as hopes continue locally that a major entertainment venue could become part of the resort’s future regeneration.

The Phoenix Arena Blackpool is an independently-developed proposal by Carters Building Consultancy, exploring how a flexible, world-class venue could support Blackpool Central and attract major events throughout the year.

The concept comes after the Government announced £20 million to explore the delivery of a new arena for Blackpool, and sets out one possible vision for how such a project could contribute to the town’s long-term regeneration.

Carters said: "Inspired by Blackpool's rich entertainment heritage and its ambition to become one of the UK's leading visitor destinations once again, the Phoenix Arena has been designed as far more than a performance venue.

“The concept brings together iconic architecture, vibrant public spaces, premium hospitality and sustainable urban design to create a destination that supports economic growth while celebrating Blackpool's unique coastal identity Blackpool Arena."

A venue for year-round entertainment

The proposed arena would be designed to accommodate a wide range of events, from international music concerts and arena tours to indoor sport, boxing, basketball, netball and esports.

It could also host conferences, exhibitions, awards ceremonies, television productions, business conventions, community events and family entertainment. The flexible design is intended to help extend Blackpool’s visitor economy beyond the traditional holiday season, while supporting hotels, restaurants and the wider evening economy.

The wider concept includes restaurants, cafés, hospitality terraces, public plazas and visitor attractions, with the aim of creating activity throughout the year rather than leaving the venue dormant between major events.

Landmark design

The Phoenix name reflects the mythical bird’s symbolism of renewal, resilience and transformation, representing what the designers describe as a new era of ambition for Blackpool.

The architectural concept features sweeping sculptural roof forms intended to create a distinctive silhouette on the skyline while complementing, rather than competing with, the historic Blackpool Tower.

Other proposed features include premium hospitality lounges, waterfront restaurants and terraces, a large public arrival plaza, flexible arena configurations and integrated public spaces. The design also emphasises pedestrian connections, an active waterfront frontage and a visitor experience extending beyond the arena itself.

Supporting regeneration

The proposal has been developed against the backdrop of significant investment across Blackpool, including Blackpool Central, Talbot Gateway, the Multiversity campus and wider town centre improvements.

According to the concept, a landmark arena could increase visitor numbers, encourage overnight stays, create jobs during construction and operation, improve investor confidence and strengthen Blackpool’s national profile.

Sustainability is also incorporated through proposed energy-efficient systems, renewable energy generation, sustainable transport, biodiversity improvements, low-carbon materials and sustainable drainage.

Carters Building Consultancy is an award-winning architectural practice working across residential, commercial and regeneration projects in the UK. The company said the Phoenix Arena reflects its focus on placemaking and how architecture can contribute to economic growth, sustainable development and long-term regeneration.

MP’s backing & funding

The project has previously received the backing of Chris Webb, MP for Blackpool South, who reiterated his calls for the construction of a new state-of-the-art indoor arena in Blackpool only in June.

Arguing that a town aspiring to be a cultural destination should have a major venue at its heart, Mr Webb is encouraging people to back the petition he started in November of last year for a new arena. The calls come as Blackpool Council seeks residents’ views on the future of the multi-million-pound redevelopment of the Blackpool Central site.

Mr Webb has described the project as a once-in-a-generation opportunity to deliver a transformational development for the town, with thousands having already backed proposals for a modern indoor arena to incorporated into wider regeneration plans.

Earlier in the summer, the government also committed £20 million to explore the development of a new indoor arena at the Blackpool Central site, marking a major milestone in plans to create a world-class entertainment venue for the town.