NWDA funds next stage of Blackpool gateway

The second phase of Blackpool's Central Corridor redevelopment has received £2.62m from the North West Development Agency.

The financial support, which was awarded to ReBlackpool and Blackpool Council, comes on top of the £9m the NWDA invested in the £13m first phase of the Central Corridor project, which has transformed the main gateway into the town.

Phase two of the scheme, part of the public sector's Blackpool Masterplan, will see a continuation north of phase one, concentrating on improving the gateway which leads from the M55 into Blackpool.

The second phase will start on site in March. The Lonsdale car park and Sands Way junction will be improved, and will feature remodelled car parking, landscaping, and traffic management schemes. Although the site is currently used as a car park by visitors to the resort, the facilities and pedestrian links to the town centre are poor and the landscaping non-existent.

Dean Blackhurst regeneration manager for ReBlackpool, the company responsible for transforming Blackpool into a successful 21st century resort, said: "The Central Corridor scheme is a key part of the Blackpool Masterplan. Public realm improvements and traffic management improvements, which are all part of this phase of the scheme, will help to create an impressive entrance into the town. Phase two will continue the new identity created for the Central Corridor in phase one and will further define a positive and welcoming image for those entering the town."