Blackpool FC training ground recommended for planning approval

Plans by Blackpool Football Club to build a new elite training ground look set to be approved by Blackpool Council – although the club’s owner has already indicated the scheme has been put on the backburner for now.

The application to build the facility on green belt land between Blackpool and Poulton got the go-ahead in April from Wyre Council, whose planning jurisdiction covers the majority of the site.

But access would be from Steeton Road, part of the Grange Park housing estate and within Blackpool’s boundary. The council’s Planning Committee is being urged to approve the application when it goes before them on Tuesday, July 23.

Five objections from residents have been received with concerns including increased traffic, light pollution from floodlights, loss of natural habitats and noise disruption.

A report by town hall planning officers acknowledges “residents of

Steeton Road and the surrounding streets on Grange Park generally would experience more traffic and associated noise as a result of the proposed use of the land.”

But traffic calming measures would be considered as part of a traffic management plan for the site.

An ecology study carried out by Wyre Council found the loss of natural areas including Dinmore Avenue Swamp would be compensated for through a 54 per cent increase in habitat units. An existing watercourse running through the site would be also be enhanced and maintained to boost bio-diversity.

The report adds: “Economically, the access would enable the creation of a modern training facility for Blackpool Football Club and its academies.

“If the ambitions of the club are realised and Blackpool Football Club reaches and maintains a place in the Premier League, this would be likely to attract more supporters and match day attendances which would boost the local

economy.”

However even if planning permission is granted, the proposals for 10 outdoor pitches, an indoor pitch and a two-storey training building are likely to be on hold after Blackpool FC owner Simon Sadler warned the club needs a more cost-effective solution before going ahead.

He told a recent fans forum the current priority was investment in the new East Stand at the club’s Bloomfield Road stadium. In the meantime, improvements have been made to the existing training facilities at Squires Gate.