The £1
billion rebirth of Blackpool as Europe's most
popular resort has begun in earnest.
Work has started
on a stunning £17 million make over
will give visitors a 'wow of a welcome' factor
as they enter the resort in summer 2005.
A host of
new state-of-the-art features creating an
intriguing new environment will greet the
resort's 11 million visitors. These include
attractive walkways, landscaped gardens, projected
terraces, stunning laser lighting, breathtaking
sculptures and works of art.
Some of the
work has already been completed in time to
help celebrate this year's 125th anniversary
of the famous Blackpool Illuminations which
light up on Friday, Sept 3.
The project,
the biggest since the famous tower was built
110 years ago, also incorporates two new mini-Blackpool
towers spelling out the resort’s name.
The 60ft high
climbing towers, which enthusiasts will be
able to climb under supervision, will be set
in acres of parkland being created either
side of the central gateway into the resort.
It is also
hoped to include other exciting new features
to create a dynamic 21st century Blackpool.
These include
a major new aquarium, a water theme park with
an artificial beach, water slides, the Exploratorium
- an interactive science and technology museum
- and a new hotel offering 1,000 family style
suites.
The £1
billion masterplan will rejuvenate the local
economy, create 20,000 jobs and establish
a spectacular world-class resort over the
next 15 years.
The
Great Promenade Show
In 1996 a major coast protection scheme raised
teh level of the New South Promenade by two
metres to protect local properties from flooding.
The original promenade and its worn features
were swept away and replaced with a contemporary
public space.
Visit the Great Promenade Show's dedicated
website HERE
The Great
Promenade Show stretches two kilometres from
Squires Gate to the Sandcastle. It includes
ten features specially commissioned from established
and emerging artists and designers. The sculptures
are unique interpretations of a variety of
Blackpool's environments.
Some come
to life at night whilst others produce mysterious
sounds or mesmeric movement. They are amusing,
awe-inspiring and challenging. Some invite
closer inspection and exploration whilst others
will bring back fond memories. They deliberately
raise more questions than answers. You might
not like them all but there's definetely something
interesting for everyone.
Download the
Masterplan Update Brochure - Jan
2005 1MB Download
