Approval for £20m, 131-home Blackpool project

Construction is set to begin later this year on the 9.5-acre, council-owned site in Grange Park.

The scheme is located on two different plots in the council estate, one off of Chepstow Road and the other fronting Dinmore Avenue. Soon that land will be filled with 96 affordable houses, five bungalows and 30 sheltered apartments. The new homes will be managed by Blackpool Coastal Housing.

Preston-based Cassidy + Ashton worked with the council on the scheme, which was formally approved by the planning committee on 7 September.  Approval was no surprise since it was the council’s own scheme and had already been signed off by the executive in July.

The development will have several pocket parks, green communal spaces and a play area. There will also be a cycle path and pedestrian walkways to connect the housing site to local schools.

“Our proposals will bring a mix of new affordable rental properties to the area, alongside a range of public open space for the use and enjoyment of new and existing Grange Park residents,” said Claire Parker, chartered town planner with Cassidy + Ashton. “The development will support local education and health services, provide much needed public open spaces as well as improving existing facilities within the local area.”

According to Cllr Ivan Taylor, deputy leader for Blackpool Council, echoed her positive remarks.

“I am delighted that this scheme is progressing to provide quality housing to meet local need on the Grange Park estate,” he said.

“The development will have a real focus on the environment tying in the current climate change project that is underway. Particular focus has been given to creating community green open spaces, a meadow grassland as well as improved cycle and walkways.

“Now that planning permission has been granted, we will finalise the timeline of work and share with the local residents. We promise they will be kept informed throughout the process.”