6 fantastic pictures of Blackpool's Stanley Park gates being repainted ahead of major centenary celebrations

The main gates at Blackpool’s Stanley Park have been repainted as part of ongoing maintenance works to help preserve the Grade II-listed park ahead of its centenary celebrations.

The refurbishment took place from Monday, September 7, to Wednesday, September 9, with Mawsons Drive closed while the work was carried out to allow the painting to take place safely. The work was weather-dependent and was undertaken during suitable dry conditions.

Residents and park visitors were thanked for their patience and understanding during the temporary disruption as the improvements were carried out. The refurbishment forms part of wider investment in Stanley Park ahead of a packed programme of events to mark 100 years since the popular 390-acre park was officially opened.

Designed and built under the direction of eminent garden designer Thomas Mawson, the park was officially opened on October 2, 1926, by the 17th Earl of Derby.

Over the past century, Stanley Park has become a major part of life in Blackpool, hosting sporting events, concerts, classic car shows and community activities, while also providing facilities including its boating lake, BMX track, skate park, playground and Art Deco cafe.

To mark the centenary, Blackpool Council has committed £500,000 from its municipal funds, alongside £50,000 raised by the Friends of Stanley Park group. The investment has supported a series of projects across the park, including restoration of the iconic Cocker Memorial Clock Tower, work on the Italian marble fountain and its decorative seahorse statues in the Italian Gardens, and a makeover for the historic Floral Clock.

Attention is now turning to the park’s major centenary celebrations, planned for Friday, October 2, and Saturday, October 3.

Friday will mark the official milestone anniversary, while Saturday will feature a festival atmosphere with artisan market stalls, family fairground rides, interactive activities and live entertainment.

The celebrations will culminate on Saturday evening with a high-tech drone light show by Celestial, the group behind the park’s Britain’s Got Talent display.

A major skating competition, Lord of the Wingz, will also form part of the celebrations. Organised by Blackpool community arts group House of Wingz, the event will feature skaters showcasing their skills alongside free skating tuition for children and adults.

House of Wingz will also provide music and dancing displays as part of the day’s entertainment.