New business group aims to invest £1m in Blackpool's recovery

Businesses in Blackpool have voted in favour of creating a Tourism Business Improvement District which aims to generate £1m to invest in the resort's post-pandemic recovery over the next five years.

The area includes more than 250 businesses on the seafront as well as those operating around the Stanley Park and Marton Mere areas. On receiving more than 90 per cent approval at the ballot, it becomes the second Business Improvement District to be formed in Blackpool.

It promises to deliver marketing and events activity to increase footfall, spend, dwell time and overnight stays, and give businesses a greater say in what is happening across the tourism sector.

Kate Shane, TBID project lead and head of Blackpool cluster for the Merlin Entertainments Group, said: “It is brilliant to see our tourism industry recognise the importance of a structured recovery programme and the role that a tourism-focused Business Improvement District can play within that.

"By working in partnership with leisure, accommodation, retail, food and drink businesses, and statutory authorities we know we can deliver a strong, cohesive, business-led growth strategy for Blackpool."

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