Blackpool Enterprise Zone reports successes of first year

Since 'going live' in April 2016, Blackpool Enterprise Zone at Blackpool Airport has become home to more than 200 businesses and around 1,500 employees.

Companies operating in the business park cover diverse industry sectors and range from manufacturers and energy consultancies to accountants and a publishing house.

“The last year has seen a spurt of activity with new developments, existing buildings adding extra office space, and new warehouse facilities completed.

Businesses are already going from strength to strength at the site. Engineering firm Force Technology was the first private business to be officially welcomed to the Enterprise Zone last year. The company specialises in high precision spring applications for the automotive, transport and shipping industry.

Overall, the Enterprise Zone now has currently over 180,000 sq ft of new development underway and is already generating interest from several more companies.

Work continues to complete Blackpool and The Fylde College’s Lancashire Energy Headquarters which is expected to open in September when the first students will be welcomed.

Cllr Smith, commented: “It is anticipated that this exciting facility will be a catalyst for a wide range of new investment from the energy sector within the Enterprise Zone.”

The new activity follows the launch of the £5m Enterprise Court commercial units project at the south east corner of the Enterprise Zone. Commercial property agents Robert Pinkus & Co is working with the developer on around 64 industrial units for sale. The Enterprise Zone, along with a sister Enterprise Zone at Hillhouse International Business Park in Thornton Cleveleys, is being overseen by the Blackpool, Fylde and Wyre Economic Development Company (EDC) on behalf of the local authorities and Lancashire Enterprise Partnership.