Blackpool 'needs world-class arena for major acts'

There is strong public enthusiasm for an arena capable of hosting major events

Fresh calls have been made for a "world-class" arena to be built on the Blackpool Central site long earmarked for multimillion-pound regeneration projects.

Blackpool South MP Chris Webb has renewed his campaign following the town council's announcement that two expert development firms had been appointed to help shape new plans for the land and attract fresh private sector investment.

Within 24 hours of its launch, more than 1,000 local residents had signed Webb's petition calling for an arena to be built in the Lancashire resort.

It is suggested the venue would be capable of hosting major concerts, sporting events, e-sports, exhibitions and conferences.

Blackpool South MP Chris Webb has been calling for an arena on the Blackpool Central site since his successful by-election campaign in the spring of 2024

In his petition, Webb says: "Blackpool deserves a world-class arena that brings major artists, events and opportunities to our town, creating jobs, boosting tourism and cementing our place as the UK's entertainment capital once again."

Webb has been calling for an arena since his by-election campaign in the spring of 2024.

The Labour MP confirmed he would share his petition and feedback directly with Blackpool Council and its development partners.

The local authority recently said both firms were committed to working closely with the community to "understand the best use of the land to benefit the local economy".

'Huge void'

According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, the two firms are seeking to create a new leisure-led development on the Blackpool Central site, which has long been seen as one of the town's most significant regeneration opportunities.

Plans were delayed last year, however, following the collapse of the previous developer, Nikal Ltd.

Local business owner Jason Barr, known as DJ Fubar, said: "Since the closure of The Syndicate back in 2011, hardly any big-name DJs or major acts have come to Blackpool.

"There's a huge void that needs filling – we need an arena capable of hosting superstar acts, bands, comedians and big events with at least a 15,000 capacity.

"The site has now been cleared, and with the original developer gone, it's time to get back to the drawing board.

"This could be part of the solution to drive footfall back into town."