Blackpool Council has appointed renowned conservation architects, Donald Insall Associates, to begin the restoration of phase one of the Winter Gardens, a Grade II listed building.

This stage is set to begin in November and runs through until February 2011.

Carefully selected to create the designs to lovingly restore the iconic building, Donald Insall Associates specialises in historic buildings conservation and new buildings in sensitive settings.

In March 2010 Blackpool Council bought the Winter Gardens, along with Blackpool Tower, Louis Tussauds and the Golden Mile Centre, bringing it into public ownership for the first time in its history. The purchases were made possible following successful bids for European and Government funding and prudential borrowing by the council.

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The first chapter of the changes will repair Floral Hall and open up the facility for visitors all year round. The Grade II listed building will have its entrance on Church Street and Coronation Street lovingly restored. Work will include refurbishment of existing features as well as creating new uses such as an exhibition space.

Donald Insall Associates Principal in Chester, Tony Barton, said: "Although we have worked on some of the country’s most important historic buildings, nothing prepares you for the splendour of the Winter Gardens. We can’t wait to help Blackpool bring it back to life."

Councillor Maxine Callow, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Tourism said: "The refurbishment of the entire Winter Gardens complex is something that will take a great deal of time and thought. We want Blackpool residents and visitors to start using it more regularly so it's our job to work closely with the architects and English Heritage to ensure that we make the best possible use of the building. We want to ensure a long term sustainable use for the Winter Gardens, so that it helps to bring jobs into Blackpool."

(CD/GK)