Blackpool's transformation has moved a step closer with the announcement that Muse Developments has submitted detailed planning applications for the first phase of development at the ambitious Central Business District (Talbot Gateway) scheme.

The £220 million scheme is being delivered in partnership with Blackpool Council. When complete it will comprise 85,000 square metres of new office and business space, hotels, shops, cafes and restaurants. Outline planning consent for the entire scheme was obtained at the beginning of last year.

The first phase consists of the two applications submitted for the refurbishment of Talbot multi-storey car park, creating new retail space, and also for the development of an office building for both public and private use. In the coming weeks a third application will be submitted for a food store.

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Muse Developments' Regional Director Mike Horner commented: "These applications are the result of many months of detailed design and appraisal work and represent a significant step forward in the delivery of the first phase of Blackpool's Central Business District. We are demonstrating that essential regeneration projects like this can be delivered through close public-private partnership working despite the very challenging market conditions.:"

At the heart of the scheme is a desire to create jobs and boost the town centre economy.

Cllr Gary Coleman, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Urban Development, said: "This area of Blackpool is in much need of regeneration and our focus is to create new jobs.

"It's expected that hundreds of people will be needed to work on the construction and we will be ensuring that an emphasis is placed on employing local people."

If the planning application is successful work would start early 2012.

(CD)