Masterplan unveiled for Blackpool EZ

A period of public consultation is underway for the future development of the Blackpool Airport Enterprise Zone.

Blackpool and Fylde Councils have released the draft masterplan, available here, which details plans beginning in early 2018.

The Enterprise Zone, along with a sister Enterprise Zone at Hillhouse Technology 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 the Lancashire Enterprise Partnership (LEP).

The 144 hectare Blackpool Airport Enterprise Zone (EZ) came into existence in April 2016 with a programmed 25 year lifespan and aspirations to host 3,000 new jobs, secure in excess of £300m of private sector investment with 180 plus new businesses locating to the EZ.

Since going ‘live’ the Government backed EZ is now home to over 200 businesses and around 1500 employees. The site has already attracted 28 new companies and is hosting 450 new jobs in the area. It is expected to add an extra 2,500 jobs over the next 24 years.

Coun Mark Smith, Blackpool Council’s cabinet member for regeneration, enterprise and economic development, said: “Blackpool Airport Enterprise Zone is one of the council’s biggest projects as part of its Growth and Prosperity Programme. It is playing a key part in delivering Blackpool Council’s vision for jobs and growth in the area. The site has already seen a surge in activity with new developments, existing buildings adding extra office space, and new warehouse facilities.

“Our vision is to make the site a premier business location in the North West where high quality businesses facilitate economic growth and employment and further develop the strong skills and knowledge base of the Fylde Coast.

“In order to ensure its robust delivery there needs to be a sound and detailed Masterplan framework in place, which this consultation will help to provide. It will support achieving future growth of the site and provide confidence for businesses and investors.

“It has already been the subject of extensive stakeholder consultation over many months. It will be regularly reviewed over the lifetime of the project to ensure it is up to date and reflective of the changing economic circumstances as the project develops.”

Trevor Fiddler, Chairman of the Planning Committee for Fylde Council said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for the economy of the Fylde Coast and I would encourage as many people as possible to contribute to the consultation. The Masterplan is not set in concrete, rather it provides a framework to maximise the delivery of the potential of the Enterprise Zone to provide confidence for businesses and investors. It also gives plenty of scope for stakeholders and potential businesses to engage with the Masterplan and contribute to the final shape of this extraordinary site.”