A ceremony took place in Blackpool to mark the start of construction on the Talbot Gateway Central Business District (CBD) scheme in Blackpool that will be delivered by Muse Developments in partnership with Blackpool Council.

Work has begun on site for a new council building that has been designed by Aedas Architects and is being built by Eric Wright Construction. The building, due to be completed by April 2014, will provide 120,000 square feet of new office accommodation and meet the highest efficiency and environmental standards.

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Phase one of the development also includes a remodelled multi-storey car park and Sainsbury’s store with work commencing later this autumn.

Overall, the £220m Talbot Gateway CBD scheme will create new retail, commercial and community space for Blackpool in addition to town centre parking and transport facilities. The masterplan also includes a new public square, offices, restaurant and retail units, a new supermarket which has been pre-sold to Sainsbury's and three hotels.

The Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) has invested £7.5m in the scheme. Nick Jackson, Area Manager at the HCA said: "Construction of the Talbot Gateway Central Business District is great news for Blackpool and highlights the commitment of partners to support economic development, improve job opportunities for local people and promote a thriving economy. The transformation of this important area will provide better facilities for residents and help to attract much needed inward investment."

(CD)