£1m boost for Blackpool magistrates court relocation plan

The money will go towards projects including the purchase of the site of the former Devonshire Road Hospital which has been earmarked for a new magistrates court.

The existing courthouse needs to be relocated to make way for the £300m Blackpool Central leisure development.

Blackpool is one of more than 100 towns across the country to receive a share of an £80m pot of cash which is part of the Town Deal.

The resort is expecting further Town Deal cash after bidding for up to £50m in total.

A council spokesperson said: “The £1m funding boost for Blackpool will be used as a contribution towards to the acquisition of the former Devonshire Road hospital site in anticipation of the relocation of the courts, to facilitate the delivery of the £300m Blackpool Central leisure scheme.

“A proportion of the funding may also be used for some site clearance and preparatory works at another site, but that is yet to be finalised.

“We are delighted that we can access some of the funding early to kick start development straight away at key sites in the town centre and we are waiting to hear if we have been successful in securing further funding as part of Blackpool’s Town Deal.”

Blackpool South MP Scott Benton also welcomed the early funding boost.

He said: “I’m delighted that we are one of the towns who will benefit from drawing down early funding as part of the Towns Fund.

“The £50m package that we are due to receive will make a huge difference in allowing us to press ahead with different projects to regenerate Blackpool and support the local economy.

“This £1m in funding will allow the council to start delivering this ambitious programme straight away.”