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Plans to transform Blackpool library into culture hub given the go ahead

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Plans to transform Blackpool library into culture hub given the go ahead

 

Blackpool is in the midst of huge investment and news that the central library will be transformed into a culture hub has been welcomed by business leaders.

 

Multi-million pound plans

Huge multi-million pound plans to completely revamp and redevelop Blackpool’s Central Library as well as Grundy Art Gallery have now been approved and these plans will transform the buildings into a cultural hub. Early this year it was announced that an architectural practice had been called in to develop some concept designs for the proposed changes as well as seek planning approval for the project and these plans have now been approved by the relevant authorities.

 

Complete transformation

These plans will be key to a complete transformation of this area of town, in particular Queen Street and the northern area of the town centre. Consent to redevelop the listed building has been granted and the plans include a new seating area, more work zones, a new link to the adjacent art gallery and a new cafe.

 

Important heritage features

The building will retain all of its unique and important architectural and heritage features but it is to be completely redeveloped to provide a flexible resource which will cater for a range of different uses. The art gallery will be extended and this will allow for more exhibition space, while an enhanced shop will create opportunities for greater income.

 

Full approval

The application for the plans were presented to the planning committee at Blackpool Council on Tuesday, October 8th and subsequently given full approval. The project still needs funding in order to proceed but if this is forthcoming, work will start on creating a new two-storey extension erected at the side of the Grundy Art Gallery.

This new extension would also provide a link with the adjacent Central Library.

 

Step in the right direction

Dave Flanagan, chair of the planning committee at Blackpool Council stated that he believed that the planning decision as “a step in the right direction to preserving Blackpool’s rich heritage”.