22-09-2020

Plans revealed for new Blackpool Airport Enterprise Zone sports facilities

Plans for the creation of new sports facilities as part of the Blackpool Airport Enterprise Zone redevelopment have been revealed by North West-based architectural, planning and building surveying practice, Cassidy + Ashton.

The practice has submitted a full planning application for the sports facilities at the Enterprise Zone on behalf of Blackpool Council.

Located at Common Edge Road, the facilities are part of the planned first phase investment of £28.8m allocated for the redevelopment of the 144-hectare Blackpool Airport Enterprise Zone.

The sports development scheme will cover approximately 14 hectares to the south east of the Enterprise Zone, along Common Edge Road. It includes 12 new grass pitches, a full size 3G rugby and football pitch with floodlighting, training and spectator facilities, plus a new changing and social pavilion.

A decision on the planning application is expected in December with work then expected to commence onsite in January, 2021.

Also featured is improved access, car parking and a new footpath and cycle way into the site.

Cabinet Member for Business, Enterprise and Job Creation Cllr Mark Smith said: “The new sports facilities will be of huge benefit to many community junior and amateur sporting clubs.

“The redevelopment and relocation of the sports facilities at Common Edge Road means that the next stage of development can move forward, the crucial opening up of developable land for further commercial investment on the Enterprise Zone, and the construction of a new access road and highways improvements. This will all further benefit the local community by attracting new businesses to the area, increasing long term sustainable job opportunities and boosting the local economy.”

Lawrence McBurney, director at Cassidy + Ashton, said: “Cassidy + Ashton has been involved with the architectural and town planning work at the Enterprise Zone since 2018. It’s great to now see the first phases of this masterplan come to fruition.

“The new development and improved facilities will enhance the sporting experience and sports training opportunities at the site for the local people. It will transform the area.”