Public inquiry into proposals for rides at Blackpool's South Pier continuing
Blackpool Pier Company argued that the rides would prove a major attraction and help boost tourism
A public inquiry is continuing today to decide on Blackpool Pier Company's appeal against Blackpool Council's decision to reject plans for new rides on South Pier.
The hearing, originally earmarked for Blackpool Town Hall, is being held at Layton Methodist Church hall.
The appeal comes after the proposals for the new rides scheme were rejected on two occasions by Blackpool planners.
Last September, Blackpool Pier Company’s application for planning permission for the siting of two rides – a Log Flume and a Starflyer – on either side of South Pier Headland area, was rejected.
Two months later in November, a new application, this time for a Certificate of Proposed Lawfulness (CLOPED) for the siting of two rides, was also refused.
Blackpool Pier Company argued that the rides would prove a major attraction and help boost tourism, and that money raised from them would be vital in helping to repair and maintain all three piers,
But in rejecting the CLOPED application on December 17, the planning head argued that the application constituted ‘development’ and would need full planning permission. The bid for the CLOPED was consequently refused on those grounds.
The appeal hearing, concerning both failed applications, is being determined by the Planning Inspectorate after the pier company launched an appeal.
It is anticipated that a decision will not be made until September.