Fleetwood Mount pavilion set for £2.4m renovation
A contractor has been appointed to carry out the next phase of restoration work at the Mount pavilion in Fleetwood.
The latest phase follows work to the sea-facing side of the Mount’s grade two-listed gardens, funded by donations from Fisherman’s Friend entrepreneur Doreen Lofthouse.
Wyre Council has been awarded £2.4 m from the Heritage Lottery Fund and the Big Lottery Fund to transform the land side including the pavilion, the rose garden and the gate lodge.
The pavilion, built in 1901, will be restored and brought back into regular use as an education centre, exhibition space and a function room for public events and receptions. The lodge building will also be restored. The upper floor will be opened as a tearoom and the lower floors, which are inaccessible currently, will be used as a base for volunteers helping on the grounds and by an artist and scientist who will run activities.
Wyre Council has appointed conservation specialist Rosslee Construction to undertake the restoration work, which will start in September.
Gary Clarkson from Rosslee Construction, said: “We are really pleased that our application to undertake the restoration work at the Mount was successful. Over the years, we have been engaged in a variety of projects involving the conservation of our local heritage from private homes to public buildings so have lots of experience to draw upon.
“As a Lancashire based company, we are committed to supporting a strong local economy by using companies and key supply chain partners based within Wyre wherever we can. We intend to offer local job opportunities and are also looking into the possibility of an apprenticeship role with Blackpool & Fylde College.
“Working alongside the council we will ensure the local community is kept up to date so that people know what’s going on during the project and can see the progress as it happens.
“We are looking forward to starting work on site and being a part of the continuing story of the Mount.”
Cllr Simon Bridge, portfolio holder for street scene, parks and open spaces at Wyre Council, said: “The Mount is such an iconic part of Fleetwood’s heritage so it’s great that we are able to bring it back to its former glory thanks to funding we have received.
“This project will bring both the Mount pavilion and the lodge building back into use, the gardens to the landward side of the Mount will be restored and a new play area will be built. The money will also be used to fund a development officer who will oversee a three year programme of events and activities, engaging with residents, schools and local groups. I look forward to seeing the project unfold over the next twelve months.”
