£90m housing investment programme for Blackpool approved - but sparks uncertainty for some hoteliers

The executive has agreed to designate streets between Chapel Street, Central Drive, Rigby Road and the Promenade as the Central Intervention Area which will be the focus for the first phase of redevelopment.

It paves the way for the council to use grants from the Government's Levelling Up Fund for a large-scale housing improvement plan which will use a mixture of demolition, refurbishment and enforcement powers.

But hoteliers have warned the move has sparked uncertainty among some business owners as the streets earmarked for change include parts of the historic Foxhall Village, which is a conservation area including many traditional bed and breakfasts.

They are calling for the Conservation Area status to be taken into account in any future development plans.

Ian White, from the StayBlackpool Team, said: "To include the area around York Street was unexpected. Though it is agreed the area is a mess, the fact it has protected conservation area status, which has just been renewed, is a real shock.

"One of StayBlackpool's directors has a B&B in the area which is up for sale. There is now minimal chance the property can be sold at a realistic price as it could easily be subject to a compulsory purchase order. I really cannot imagine the stress that this news has caused."

Part of the recommendations agreed by the executive cover public engagement which is due to be held later this year.

Council leader Coun Lynn Williams has described the project as a "once in a lifetime opportunity to enable systematic and transformational change in both the fabric of Blackpool and most importantly in the quality and mix of housing in this part of the inner area of Blackpool".

But she has pledged to work with residents throughout the process "from the beginning to the end".

Speaking before the executive meeting, she said “It is now critical to draw out opinion and information from within the community."

The council's wholly-owned housing company, Blackpool Housing Company (BHC), is expected to deliver the scheme. The first steps will be to draw up detailed masterplans, prepare for public consultation and update proposals prior to the submission of planning applications.