Blackpool eyes spring 2025 completion for £7.5m Stanley Buildings revamp
Main contractor F Parkinson will begin work in 2024 on the scheme, which will see the historic building’s upper two floors converted into offices and meeting rooms.
Known as ‘The Edge’, the £7.5m hub for small businesses and start-ups will provide 44 offices as well as a groundfloor coworking space. The scheme is being delivered by Blackpool Council, as part of its success £39.5m bid to the government’s Town Deal programme.
The Edge initiative also includes a roof replacement, the installation of new windows, and repair of the Stanley Buildings’ brickwork. Air source heat pumps and solar panels are being installed as well.
Blackpool Council estimates work will complete on The Edge in spring of 2025. The council has also promised that more than 50% of the main contract with F Parkinson will be spent with local suppliers.
“This project will enable us to fulfil our twin aims of creating a first-class home for growing small businesses as well as the transformation of a prominent locally listed building,” said Blackpool Council cabinet member for levelling up Cllr Mark Smith.
He continued: “This scheme provides an ideal opportunity to expand the quality and range of flexible managed workspace within the town centre by delivering high-quality, affordable commercial floor space.”
Cassidy + Ashton is the architect for the project, which is being funded with £4.5m from the Town Deal programme, £2.8m from Blackpool Council, and £200,000 from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
