Blackpool Council’s £65m Multiversity scheme gets planning go-ahead

Planning permission has been granted for the £65m Blackpool Multiversity development, as part of the ongoing regeneration of the town’s Talbot Gateway area.The planning application, which was led by global real estate advisor, Avison Young, would deliver up to 32,600 sq m of education and commercial space across several phases, starting with the new Multiversity building.The Multiversity project has already received almost £50m in government funding as part of the Levelling Up Fund and Blackpool Town Deal.It aims to promote higher level skills, helping residents in Blackpool secure jobs for the future through providing a high quality purpose built educational facility. It will offer courses in automation, mobility, artificial intelligence, data, population ageing, and sustainability.New buildings at the site will provide high quality architecture that will enhance the built environment in this area of the town.The development will integrate with the wider town centre through the provision of high quality new public realm and landscaping, creating an attractive space for people to learn and work. The spaces between the buildings will form new connections into the town, as part of the wider Talbot Gateway/ Blackpool North regeneration.Ed Harvey, Associate Director, at Avison Young said: “It’s a big step forward for Blackpool’s future and an important next step in the ongoing regeneration of the town centre. The Multiversity campus will be a beacon of opportunity for the town, inspiring lifelong learning and encouraging people to upskill.“The Multiversity is just one of several projects that Avison Young is working on in Blackpool currently – including working with Muse and the council on the Talbot Gateway regeneration, Blackpool Football Club’s Revoe Community Sports Village and East Stand, and also the Blackpool Inner Area housing delivery project.”He added: “We really believe in the potential of Blackpool and look forward to continuing our work in the town.”