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Last minute deal done on centre revamp
From the archive, first published Thursday 9th Mar 2006.
Builders will move in later this month to begin the long-awaited £30 million extension of the Hounds Hill Shopping Centre after developers and Blackpool Council reached an eleventh hour deal.
The new owners of the centre, Modus Properties, will begin building work on March 20 after an emergency meeting of the council's cabinet agreed a deal with the developers on Friday over the financing of several compulsory purchase orders on buildings which will make way for the extension.
Brendan Flood, managing director of Modus, said: "Modus is pleased to announce that Balfour Beatty Construction lLtd have been appointed formally as the contractors for the Hounds Hill Shopping Centre phase two.
"Some works have already commenced but the real work begins on March 20 which will ensure a spring opening in 2008.
"The plans will treble the size of the centre, which will include a new department store, Debenhams, a River Island and a Next.
"Modus is very excited to be working alongside the council and the local community on this project. We are looking forward to being part of the future big picture in Blackpool."
Council leader, Cllr Roy Fisher, added: "Modus has an excellent track record in creating first class, town centre shopping. Blackpool needs to revitalise its shopping experience and Modus has an enviable reputation of attracting big names in retail. We are already looking forward to Debenhams and are confident that Modus will be able to add to the list of quality retailers wanting to open up in Blackpool."
A final agreement on detailed planning permission for the site is expected next Monday.
Planners have advised members of the development control committee to accept Modus's planning application for a five-storey building incorporating retailing, car parking and a 63-bedroom hotel.
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