This landmark move brings some of the town’s most popular visitor attractions and experiences under the operation of Blackpool Council’s newly-formed wholly owned tourism management company, Blackpool Tourism Limited.
Blackpool Tourism Limited, who currently operate Sandcastle Waterpark and Showtown Museum, have now expanded their portfolio with Blackpool Tower (including Blackpool Tower Circus, Ballroom, Dungeons and Eye) and Madame Tussauds now operating under their management.
Kate Shane MBE, Managing Director of Blackpool Tourism Limited, said:
These new arrangements will replace the management of these attractions by Merlin Entertainments, which have operated them on the council’s behalf since 2010.
As part of this change, both parties have also agreed to enter a new partnership to enable Madame Tussauds and The Dungeons to continue to operate, marking the first ever UK franchise agreements for the two iconic brands.
Blackpool Tourism Limited will operate both attractions under franchise from Merlin, ensuring the ongoing presence of these two popular brands in the resort.
Councillor Lynn Williams, Leader of Blackpool Council, said: