Enterprise Zone plans lodged in Blackpool
Outline proposals have been submitted for a first, 81-acre phase of development at [pin url=”https://explore.deetu.com/pnw/#blackpool-airport-enterprise-zone”][/pin]Blackpool Airport Enterprise Zone, including close to 1m sq ft of industrial space, a sports village and a gateway access road.
The zone overall is to see 356 acres developed out over time, with £28.8m allocated to tackle this initial three-year phase. Preston-based architect and planner Cassidy + Ashton is working noi behalf of the site’s promoters, Blackpool Council and Fylde Borough Council.
The phase one site sits in the south eastern part of the zone, mostly within Blackpool’s jurisdiction. Cassidy + Ashton’s plan sets out the relocation of the existing Common Edge football pitches, including new facilities for AFC Blackpool, to unlock land for industrial development. Up to 25 parcels of serviced land could be brought forward during phase one, completing by 2023.
Amy Johnson Way on the existing business park will be linked to the new spine road by a roundabout providing access from Common Edge Road, Marton before it meets Queensway.
The outline application includes plans for up to 968,400 sq ft of B1, B2 and B8 floorspace; 83,000 sq ft of leisure space, including general fitness, cricket, tennis, netball and rifle club facilities; 3,500 sq ft of retail; a café and sports bar; up to 57 houses; and 12 sports pitches, two of them 3G and the rest grass.
Alban Cassidy, director at Cassidy + Ashton, said: “We’re incredibly proud to be involved in this major project to breathe new commercial life into such an important and historic location in Blackpool. Getting the site operating at its full potential has long been a strategic goal of the council and its wider stakeholders. We’re thrilled to be advising them as they seek to capitalise on the site’s Enterprise Zone status.”
Cllr Mark Smith, cabinet member for regeneration, enterprise and economic development said: “Relieving congestion in the local area is a primary concern for local businesses and residents and I’m delighted to see plans taking shape to address this, as well as making good provision for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians.
“Delivering new industrial sites is a priority for Blackpool to meet increasing local demand but it is also great to see improvements being made to the sports and leisure facilities in the area to promote physical exercise, healthy lifestyles and community facilities that everyone can enjoy.”
