Multi-million pound Blackpool housing development completed

A £20m social housing scheme at the Grange Park estate in Blackpool has now been completed providing 133 new high quality homes.

The development has transformed two previously vacant sites and integrated them into the wider Grange Park estate.

The project in total has delivered 96 houses, seven bungalows and 30 sheltered apartments along with enhanced open spaces, a children’s playground, improved pedestrian and cycle access, as well as significant social value benefits.

The new homes have been funded partially by a grant from Homes England and are managed by Blackpool Coastal Housing who manage around 5,000 properties on Blackpool Council’s behalf. Funding from the European Regional Development Fund has also supported the installation of air source heat pumps in 30 of the properties which offer an energy efficient and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional heating systems, significantly reducing carbon emissions and energy costs. In addition, all houses are fitted with solar panels and battery to decrease the community’s carbon footprint and support eco-friendly living and development.

Timeline of events

· September 2021 – Planning permission granted
· November 2021 – RP Tyson Construction awarded contract
· December 2021 – Site clearance began
· May 2022 – First foundation laid
· June 2023 – First 17 properties handed over
· April 2024 - Playground opens
· August 2024 – Final properties handed over

Local firm RP Tyson Construction was appointed as the principal contractor for the development. As part of Blackpool’s Council procurement process it sets out a requirement for social value contributions.

RP Tyson Construction has delivered multiple additional community benefits from job opportunities through subcontractor apprenticeships, helping local unemployed people gain skills, alongside the creation of new jobs for people who were previously unemployed. A total of 13 apprentices were recruited and retained.

ABOVE: Aerial view of new housing in Grange Park, Blackpool.

Local school children have gained insight into careers. The company has hosted many learning skills events and work place experiences for school pupils across the town including a bricklaying site visit for the Boathouse Youth Centre, a construction day for the Christ the King School and work placements for St Mary’s Academy in their joinery workshop.

The company also set up a fund to support community groups and activities within the estate. RP Tyson has contributed £15,800 of funds to local community groups. Examples included support for the Hope Community Church craft evenings, installation of a secure bicycle shelter at The Boathouse Youth Centre and funding for renovating a camping trailer for the 4th Blackpool Scout Group.

Cllr Mark Smith, Blackpool Council Cabinet Member for Levelling Up – Place with responsibilities for Strategic Housing, said: “In less than three years since planning permission was granted this area has been transformed to create new homes, improved foot and cycle paths and a new playground. To walk round Grange Park it looks like the properties have always been there, they fit in so well and enhance the overall appearance of the estate. I hope that all the new residents are happy in their new homes and have enjoyed becoming part of the Grange Park community.

“These homes have helped meet local housing needs ranging from 1 bedroom apartments to 6 bedroom houses designed for larger families which are also more energy efficient.

“In our town now more than 400 social homes will have been built since 2018. It is one of many significant investment schemes and projects across the town that is making Blackpool better, creating jobs and encouraging skills through apprenticeships.”

Jeremy Whittle, the Managing Director of Tyson Construction, said: "We were delighted to have constructed this new affordable housing development. Blackpool is our home, and we are committed to delivering great homes for local people. At the same time, we aim to have a positive impact on our local community by employing locally based subcontractors, apprentices, providing valuable jobs and supporting local community groups."

Project management of the scheme was delivered on behalf of the council by Blackpool Housing Company.

Cassidy + Ashton architects were lead designers, developing the designs following conversations with the local community, Boundary Primary School, @theGrange and local stakeholders.