Plans for Blackpool Central development move forward to procurement phase
Blackpool Council seeks developer for major site transformation
Blackpool Council is progressing with plans to find a developer for the Blackpool Central site, marking an important step toward transforming the area into a vibrant leisure destination.
The council’s Executive is set to consider a recommendation for a procurement exercise at its meeting on 14th September, aiming to identify a suitable developer or investor for the site.
The decision to proceed follows the appointment of marketing consultants Newmark HDH and theleisureway in October 2025. These firms have been pivotal in promoting the site's potential at major property events like MIPIM and UKREiiF.
If the procurement process is approved, it is expected to commence next month, with the successful development partner likely to be announced by spring 2027.
Blackpool Central, situated beside The Blackpool Tower, offers 10 acres of prime land in the town’s heart, boasting high footfall and excellent transport links from the M55 motorway and Blackpool Tower tram stop.
The area is not only a gateway to Blackpool Promenade and seafront but also a focal point for major events, including Blackpool Illuminations and the World Fireworks Championship Blackpool.
The site includes a 1,306-space multi-storey car park, opened in 2024, and is ready for development following the demolition of a former police station and courts building.
Enhancements have been made to the King Edwards properties on Central Drive, such as façade and window improvements to maintain the site's appeal until further development begins.
Cllr Mark Smith, Blackpool Council’s Cabinet Member for Economy and Built Environment, emphasised the project's significance: “This is another important step towards bringing a new and exciting leisure attraction to Blackpool. The site offers a unique opportunity to deliver a major mixed-use leisure-led development in the heart of the town."
The development not only aims to enhance Blackpool’s appeal to visitors but also supports broader efforts to improve housing and community infrastructure in the area, including new social housing initiatives and sports facilities.