Nick Gerrard, Growth & Prosperity Programme Director at Blackpool Council, outlines how Blackpool’s £2 billion transformation is creating major new opportunities for businesses and investors.
Blackpool is undergoing huge transformation, with a bold £2 billion Growth and Prosperity Programme reshaping the town into one of the most exciting investment locations in the North. From flagship regeneration projects to high-quality business spaces and a skilled workforce, Blackpool offers the space, support and ambition to help businesses grow.
In Blackpool, there truly is space for every business. Whether you’re a start-up or established company you’ll find opportunities to thrive, from our strategically located Enterprise Zones at Blackpool Airport and Hillhouse, to modern office and innovation space in the heart of the town centre.
Transforming the town centre
At the heart of Blackpool’s transformation is the creation of a thriving central business district. The £350 million Talbot Gateway redevelopment, by Blackpool North Train Station, is one of the most significant town centre regeneration schemes in the North which is bringing more than 8,000 people into the town centre once completed in 2028.
Talbot Gateway benefits from exceptional connectivity, centred on an integrated tram, train and bus interchange that places the rest of the region within easy reach. Alongside this, a vibrant leisure offer and the upcoming Multiversity education campus are helping to establish the area as the commercial property destination in Blackpool.
The surrounding town centre is also enjoying renewed life. New hotels and restaurants are strengthening the already thriving early evening economy, with a revitalised Abingdon Street Market, the IMAX cinema and Showtown Museum all enhancing quality of life for residents, workers and visitors alike. Together, these investments are creating an environment where businesses can attract and retain talent while benefiting from a lively, well-connected place to work.
Supporting business growth
Our award-winning Enterprise Zones at Blackpool Airport and Hillhouse provide opportunities for growth.
At Blackpool Airport Enterprise Zone which has already seen a 2,700 increase in jobs, significant investment has delivered a new access road, unlocking prime development land that is now ready for occupation. This well-connected site is well suited to advanced manufacturing, aviation, energy and technology-led businesses seeking room to expand while also taking advantage of the convenient location.
A major future-focused project attracting national attention is Silicon Sands, a data centre led campus designed for high-tech businesses. The first exemplar data centre is expected to start later this year, with further development opportunities available for businesses looking to be part of a growing digital ecosystem.
Businesses locating in Blackpool will also benefit from exceptional digital connectivity as the town is connected to the ultra-fast, low-latency North Atlantic Loop, enabling internal data to be transmitted to New York faster than London can.
Partnering for success
Investing in Blackpool means gaining a partner, not just a location. Our Growth and Prosperity team is on hand to support you every step of the way, from finding the right space to navigating planning, funding and recruitment.
We can help you recruit the right talent for your business with access to a skilled and growing labour market, including more than 18,000 professionals already working locally in science, research, engineering and technology. You could also benefit from the strong future talent in the town, with thousands of graduates qualifying each year from nearby universities and colleges.
Here in Blackpool we work hard for our rewards and as the world knows, we do it with a smile on our faces. If you’re looking for ambition and opportunities for growth, Blackpool is ready for you.
