Blackpool taps market for Old Post Office redevelopment

Having acquired the grade two-listed asset last year to safeguard its long-term future, the local authority is now seeking expressions of interest from developers to bring part of the 100,000 sq ft complex back into use.

Blackpool Council bought the former Royal Mail site in the town centre for £1.8m after a plan to transform it into a 148-key hotel failed to materialise. The acquisition was made using part of an £8m government grant that was handed down to support the redevelopment of the building.

Now, the authority has appointed CBRE and Walker Sime to lead an early market engagement exercise to gauge interest in the opportunity to redevelop part of the the neo-Renaissance building – the former sorting office fronting Edward Street.

The asset is located at the heart of Blackpool, close to Winter Gardens, and forms part of the town’s ongoing £2bn Growth and Prosperity Programme. The programme also features projects including the recently completed DWP office and the £65m Multiversity, which is under construction.

Expressions of interest should be submitted by 27 November. View the tender 

Cllr Mark Smith, cabinet member for economy and built environment at Blackpool Council, said: “Our £2bn+ Growth and Prosperity Programme is transforming Blackpool, bringing new investment, jobs and opportunities.

“With major regeneration projects reshaping the town, more than 8,000 workers and students expected in the town centre over the coming years, and an extended tourism season supporting year-round activity, the former sorting office presents an exciting development opportunity in the heart of Blackpool.”

He added: “We are keen to receive expressions of interests from parties with the vision and experience to bring forward a high-quality, sustainable scheme that delivers lasting benefits for Blackpool and supports a thriving town centre.”