REVEALED: Vision of Blackpool's new multi-million pound police HQ

The Gazette can exclusively reveal the final proposals for the scheme – on the former Progress House site in Clifton Road – which could be approved by councillors at the end of this month.

The detailed proposals were submitted last week and, should they be approved, building work could start later in the year.

The new headquarters will replace Blackpool’s Bonny Street police station which was built in the 1970s and is no longer fit for purpose.

Lancashire’s Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw is hoping the new HQ will support police in their work and generate job opportunities.

Mr Grunshaw said: “The current Bonny Street station is an eyesore, a drain on our resources and does not meet modern policing requirements.

“I am delighted to see we are moving forward with our vision to provide a police station that will serve the Fylde coast’s residents and police officers well for decades come.”

A pot of £21m has been set aside for the scheme, with the police paying more than £2m for the land, close to the M55.

Chief Supt Stuart Noble, Divisional Commander for Lancashire Constabulary’s West Division, added: “This will offer a better working environment for our officers and staff and, ultimately, allow us to provide a better quality of service to the public.

“The Blackpool town centre neighbourhood policing team and public enquiry desk will relocate to the council’s Municipal Building so we will still have a presence in the town centre.”

The Bonny Street site has already been sold to Blackpool Council, as part of a £3.2m deal, opening up the possibility of redeveloping the town’s prime Central Station site.

Blackpool North and Cleveleys MP Paul Maynard said it was time the police had a base fit for purpose.

He said: “I welcome progress on this important scheme.

“Bonny Street is sadly rather tired and is no longer fit for purpose.

“The cells are no longer up to scratch and the working environment is not good.

“This new headquarters cannot come soon enough and I’m pleased to see the Government sticking to its funding commitment.”

Coun Luke Taylor, who represents Clifton Ward is impressed by the proposals.

He said: “The building looks very impressive, bringing the police headquarters into the 21st century.

“Aconsideration has been made for green spaces which when complete will complement other green space projects in the ward.”