Blackpool town centre compulsory purchase order approved

The council’s executive agreed the recommendation when it met on Monday, paving the way for the regeneration of around two and a half acres of land between Deansgate, East Topping Street and parts of Cookson Street, King Street and Charles Street.

It previously indicated a desire to bring civil service jobs to the town centre although the name of the potential occupant has so far not been disclosed.

The council already owns 91 per cent of the area needed for the development which would be in partnership with Muse Developments, which has built previous phases of the Talbot Gateway.

But a report says “negotiations to date have failed to achieve the voluntary acquisition of all properties needed” prompting the requirement for a compulsory purchase order.

A report adds: “The council has remained committed to providing large office accommodation in accordance with the masterplan, and discussions have continued with interested parties, all of which indicates that there is a demand for large office accommodation.”