Blackpool seeks Central Drive development partner
Early market engagement has been launched as the council looks to advance a housing-led regeneration programme backed by grant funding of £90.4m from Homes England.
Blackpool Council said it is looking for a developer that shares its ambition to restore Central Drive back to its heyday and support local people into better housing.
The project is backed by £90.4m of grant funding from national regeneration body Homes England, and is part of a wider 15-year vision to transform housing and communities across inner Blackpool.
The project will see the redevelopment of 13.4 acres close to Blackpool town centre, creating up to 230 energy-efficient homes for local people, alongside new public spaces, community facilities, local commercial uses and enhanced infrastructure.
A consultation process was carried out last autumn, outlining how 400 poor-quality properties could be removed as part of the project.
Subject to the necessary approvals, development works are anticipated to begin in 2028.
The council is now inviting experienced development and regeneration partners to provide feedback on the key principles underpinning the intended approach to delivery ahead of a formal tender in early autumn.
This preliminary engagement process will be live until 11 September.
Cllr Lynn Williams, Leader of Blackpool Council, said: “This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity for a developer to be part of Blackpool’s transformation story. We are looking for a development partner who shares our ambition to create high-quality homes, attractive public spaces and a thriving community that will improve the lives of local people for decades to come.
“Central Blackpool has enormous potential. This project is about far more than housing. It is about creating a sustainable neighbourhood, tackling long-standing challenges and providing the foundations for future growth and investment.
“The project doesn’t stand alone either. We are bringing new social housing, jobs and community facilities to the central Blackpool area already and are in the middle of a wider £2bn transformation of Blackpool as a place.
“We want to hear from organisations who have the vision, expertise and commitment to join us on this journey to make Blackpool better for the people who live here.”
Residential projects advanced by Blackpool in recent years include the replacement of tower blocks at Queens Park in a £22m project, the development of new homes at Grange Park and Mereside, and the delivery of Foxhall Village in partnership with social housing providers such as Great Places.
The Central Housing Regeneration Area project is intended to act as a catalyst for wider regeneration across inner Blackpool. The formal procurement process will be set in motion this autumn.
