Plans have been revealed for the first phase of a £300 million world-class leisure destination off the Golden Mile in Blackpool.

Nikal Ltd and Media Invest Entertainment have launched a consultation on proposals for the first phase of Blackpool Central.

The new, year-round destination is forecast to attract an additional 600,000 visitors to Blackpool per year, boost annual spend in the town by £75m and create up to 1,000 new jobs.

The development will be home to a new indoor theme park, including a flying theatre, rides for all the family, the latest immersive virtual reality experience and a rooftop bar.

It will also feature a new major public square for live events, such as music concerts, light shows, sporting events and markets, and new hotels and restaurants.

A planning application is being prepared for the first phase of development, which includes a new 1,300 space multi-storey car park (MSCP) which will free up land for future phases and ensure there continues to be appropriate parking provision for visitors to Blackpool and Blackpool residents.

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The first phase of the plans will also restore the existing heritage buildings to create a thriving new Heritage Quarter. The Grade II Listed former King Edward VII Picture House will become a new 'Artisan Food Hall' which spills out onto new outdoor space for 'al fresco' dining. The locally listed King Edward VII pub will be refurbished into a new pub and hotel, creating a modern, family friendly environment offering quality food and beverages. The King Edward VII apartment building will be renovated into a high-quality 'Aparthotel' with plenty of character.

The scheme is a key part of the Blackpool Town Deal – a bold vision to drive the regeneration of the town and post-COVID economic recovery. The Town Deal is supported by £39.5m of government funding from the £3.6bn Towns Fund. Nikal and Media Invest Entertainment are working closely with Blackpool Council to unlock the Blackpool Central redevelopment opportunity, which will be the largest single investment in Blackpool in over a century.

Richard Fee, Chairman, Nikal Ltd said: "We're looking to create a world-class leisure destination that will add to Blackpool's current offer and attract hundreds of thousands of new visitors every year. This planning application for the enabling phase will allow us to deliver the new multi-storey car park and the Heritage Quarter, where we're planning to create a new Artisan Food Hall. We want to understand and listen to what the local community, local businesses and visitors to Blackpool think of this game-changing opportunity. Please get in touch and help us define and shape the scheme."

Norbert Reichart, Chief Executive Officer, Media Invest Entertainment said: "The new indoor theme park will provide all year, all weather family entertainment. With a mix of attractions, using some of the world's latest technology, it's set to become one of the UK’s most exciting destinations. We’re looking forward to hearing what people think about the plans."