Blackpool needs to realise and exceed the demands and expectations of both residents and tourists. The intention is that Blackpool will be re-established as the retail, business, civic and cultural centre for the Fylde Coast.

One of the goals of the Masterplan is to improve the arrival experience to the Town. The Talbot Road area is to be remodelled with new retail, commercial, civic, community and residential uses around a new public square which will act as the gateway for visitors by rail and by car.



The first phase of construction is due to start in 2007 and expected to reach completion in 2010. Total value of the overall development is expected to be £227.625 million.

Elsewhere, the quality of the shopping facilities will be improved through the introduction of a Debenhams department store as part of the 18,000 sq metre expansion of the Hounds Hill Shopping Centre, streetscape improvements in Talbot Square, Abingdon Street and St John's Square and improvements to building fabric as part of a Townscape Heritage Initiative.