UK: Developers Nikal and Media Invest Entertainment will submit a planning application for the first phase of Blackpool Central development next month.
The proposals include serviced apartments, indoor theme parks, a hotel, retail space, F&B outlets, a 1,300-space multistorey car park and a heritage quarter.
“We’re looking to create something never seen before, with world-class rides and family entertainment, Blackpool Central will provide year-round attractions that will complement and future proof the town’s tourism offer,” said Norbert Reichart, chief executive of Media Invest.
A public consultation on the proposals for the £300 million project is due to be launched in the coming weeks. Following the consultation period, Nikal and Media Invest are to submit a hybrid planning application to Blackpool Council for the redevelopment of the former Blackpool Central train station close to Central Pier.
The developers are to seek full approval to remediate the site, build the seven-storey car park and create the heritage quarter, while also seeking outline approval for future phases of the development.
The heritage quarter features the reuse of several listed buildings; the former King Edward VII Cinema building is to be converted for use as a food and beverage unit, as is the King Edward pub.
The King Edward VII Apartment Building is earmarked to be revamped for use as serviced apartments and is to include a ground floor retail and food and drink offer, according to a document by planning consultant Spawforths that has been submitted to the council.
Meanwhile a branded indoor theme park that will house Blackpool Central’s anchor tenant, the Chariots of The Gods Entertainment Park, forms the main part of the outline portion of the application.
Two smaller indoor theme parks, a 200-bedroom hotel, several bars and restaurants, and a public square also feature in future phases. The developers will seek full consent for these elements in the coming years.
The entire project is scheduled to complete in the second quarter of 2029.
In order for the project to start on site, the council needs to acquire the land needed to deliver the first three phases of the scheme and plans to do so by exercising compulsory purchase powers.
Cllr Lynn Williams, leader of Blackpool Council, said: “We can’t underestimate the difference that this high-profile, game-changing development will make to Blackpool’s tourism offer and the boost it will provide to the town’s economy.”
