Robotic technology will make creating new Blackpool Illuminations 'more efficient'

Cutting edge technology is being introduced by Blackpool's world famous Illuminations as part of new investment in the attraction which dates back more than a century.
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A robotic arm and a 3D printer are being introduced to the production line in South Shore where work is underway to design a number of new features as part of a £4.5m cash injection into the display.

The machinery will not replace designers, but will make the cutting out of features from fibreglass more efficient.

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Traditionally features were carved out using a knife, but the robotic arm will reduce the potential for mistakes and is seen as future-proofing the production process.

Blackpool IlluminationsBlackpool Illuminations
Blackpool Illuminations

The Illuminations Department already has one robotic arm, and has agreed to purchase another from Liverpool-based company CNC Robotics Ltd.

A council report says the service currently uses "outdated" methods.

It adds the purchase "will allow the Illuminations Service to eliminate these outdated methods, deliver cost savings and provide Blackpool Illuminations with the ability to expedite manufacture and production of illuminated features for the annual show."

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The Illuminations service was allocated £4.5m as part of Blackpool's £40m Town Deal, with the money being used to upgrade the annual Lights show which attracts more than three million visitors a year.

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Go ahead for £40m transformation of Blackpool as Town Deal agreed

Part of the funding was earmarked towards buying essential technical equipment and improving the infrastructure of the display, as well as developing new features.

Seven projects in total were allocated a share of the Town Deal funding which is aimed at regenerating Blackpool.