ALB Group plans hotel for iconic building

Nottingham-based ALB Group has acquired one of Blackpool’s most iconic buildings, with the developer targeting a hotel chain for the upper floor of the site.The company has purchased the Pricebusters building in Bank Hey Street, which occupies the site next to the Blackpool Tower.The property has had a number of uses over the years, including as a Woolworths and the Pricebusters indoor market.Now, the ground floor is occupied by Poundland and Wetherspoons, while a number of units remain vacant after the relocation of Sports Direct.Following the deal, ALB is hoping to secure a hotel chain that is keen to take over the upper floor.Arran Bailey, managing director of ALB Group, said: “The old Pricebusters building is without a doubt one of the most iconic buildings in Blackpool.”Unfortunately, as the cost-of-living crisis begins to bite, we are losing so many shops from the Great British high street and we need to do all we can to prevent this from happening.”The building runs parallel with the promenade and seafront, close to the junction with Victoria Street.Bailey added: “By taking over this unit, we hope that a hotel chain will be encouraged to occupy the top floors. The space has great sea views, it overlooks the promenade. It would be the ideal location for a hotelier.”We also feel that a hotel chain or an independent boutique hotel would be brilliant for footfall in the area and well received by other local retailers.”