Blackpool Wilko demolition to start - paving way for next phase of regeneration

It will pave the way for a new Holiday Inn Hotel and completion of the tramway extension following nearly two years of delays.

Proposed Schedule of Works:

 Demolition of Wilko’s building, Talbot Road – June to December 2020

 Construction of the high street underpass – November 2020 to April 30 2021

 Construction of the Holiday Inn Hotel – October 2020 to April 2022

 Tram extension and track completion – January to May 2021

All timings are subject to there being no further delays due to the current Covid-19 crisis.

Council leader Coun Simon Blackburn said: “Phase two of Talbot Gateway will transform this key entrance into Blackpool and we are delighted to be one step closer to realising our long term ambitions for the town.”

Robertson Construction Group has been appointed by Blackpool Council and development partner Muse Developments to start work on Monday. (June 1).

Managing director for Robertson North West Dirk Pittaway said: “Talbot Gateway’s regeneration continues to gather pace and as a growing business in the region we are thrilled to be playing our part.

“Robertson has significant experience in the hotels sector and we will use that to deliver a facility that is best in class and something everyone in Blackpool

can be proud of.”

He said clear procedures, including social distancing, would be in place to ensure the safety of everyone involved on site.

The £22m tramway extension was originally due to be completed by July 2019 but has been delayed by hold-ups in other town centre regeneration schemes.

Coun Blackburn, said people had worked “tirelessly around the clock to ensure that the delivery of this flagship commercial development stays on course and goes ahead as planned”.

He said having all the correct safety procedures in place meant Blackpool could focus on its economic recovery.

He added: “As we emerge out of the current emergency crisis and into a period of recovery and rebuilding, it is really important that as a community we stay committed and focused to the successful delivery of the ongoing regeneration projects throughout the town.”

Mike Horner, development director at Muse Developments which has been working on the Talbot Gateway since 2009, said: “It’s a proud moment for everyone involved at Talbot Gateway as we take the next step on

the journey to transform and re-energise the town centre, by delivering a new landmark hotel and high-quality brand to strengthen the hotel offering in the town.

“The renaissance of Blackpool is gathering apace and we’re delighted to be playing an important role with the council in delivering this vision.”

Blackpool Council has a franchise agreement with International Hotel Group (IHG) for the 144-bedroom Holiday Inn, which is due to open in 2022, creating up to 50 full- time jobs.

The first phase of the Talbot Gateway included the Bickerstaffe House council offices and Sainsbury’s supermarket.