Asset management partnership announced for key Blackpool regeneration assets

Blackpool Council has entered an asset management partnership with Ellandi covering major assets within the town’s regeneration plans.Ellandi is the strategic asset manager on Houndshill Shopping Centre, Abingdon Street Market and the Corporation Victoria Street portfolio.The 298,000 sq ft Houndshill Shopping Centre is adjacent to the Winter Gardens, close to the iconic Blackpool Tower, and was acquired by Blackpool Council in November 2019.It comprises more than 55 stores, including Primark, Next and River Island.In addition, a new leisure phase including an IMAX-ready cinema will be delivered in 2023, along with new family dining outlets and a 22,500 sq ft wilkos, the household retail chain.Abingdon Street Market is a heritage asset in the heart of the town centre undergoing a full refurbishment that will provide a bright, modern space for shopping and socialising, incorporating a new 250 seating area, new stalls for food produce, food and beverage, artisan retail stalls and a coffee and bar area.Together with property manager partner Workman, Ellandi and Blackpool Council will deliver on plans for the centre to support Blackpool’s position as a national and regional destination.As part of a vision to create the UK’s most sustainable and inclusive communities, Ellandi says it is committed to ensuring the centre does its part for wider change in the town, contributing to the local economy and creating employment opportunities and focusing on local contractor partnerships.Mark Robinson, Ellandi co-founder, said: “This partnership adds to the growing body of regeneration work we are undertaking with the public sector in Medway and Sefton.”Cllr Lynn Williams, leader of Blackpool Council, said: “Ellandi has a strong track history partnering with local authorities, transforming and managing retail and town centre spaces. The team’s experience will help us with our town centre recovery strategy, attracting more footfall, boosting the economy and creating more opportunities for year-round job opportunties for our residents.”