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30 June 2021

Robertson Construction North West begin next phase of Talbot Gateway Phase Two

Key members of the development team met on site today (30 June) to mark the next step of the multimillion pound development at Talbot Gateway Phase Two, as the first steelwork is erected on site for the 4* Holiday Inn and Marco Pierre White restaurant.

With the development on schedule for a summer 2022 opening, construction of the main steelwork frame will be carried out over the next few months, with roofing and cladding work programmed to start in the autumn.

Mike Horner, Development Director from Muse Developments, Blackpool Council's development partner for Talbot Gateway said, "It's a fantastic feeling to meet with partners safely on site and see the next phase of the hotel build start to take shape here at Talbot Gateway.

"We've got some real forward momentum now as we emerge from a very challenging twelve months and this hotel is all part of building back better and further driving inward investment and opportunities right into the heart of Blackpool. We're focused in our collective vision to re-energise the town centre and we're delighted to be playing an important role with the council and Robertsons in creating a more vibrant, inclusive and connected Blackpool that's resilient for the future."

Dirk Pittaway, regional managing director of Robertson Construction North West, the main contractor on site said, "We are delighted to join the development team on site today to mark the erection of the steel. This is an important regeneration project for the area, and we are committed to delivering a high-quality build that will benefit the region for years to come. Our commitment extends to the local community who have made us incredibly welcome, and we look forward to when restrictions lift in order that we can use the site to become a learning and work experience environment for students, apprentices and our local employment partners."

The development works will also include a new underpass below the hotel that will provide a bright, modern entrance into Blackpool North train station from a new tram terminus. High Street will be closed from 5 July for approximately 26 weeks to allow the new subway works to be undertaken. Diversions will be in place around the site so residents are being urged to plan their journeys ahead of time.

Tramway contractors SISK, on behalf of Blackpool Council, are also on schedule to complete the new £23.4m tram link to Blackpool North train station. The existing tramway will be further extended from the corner of Dickson/Talbot Road, through the construction site to a new North Station terminus. There will be some additional closures along Talbot Road starting 5 July for four weeks to fit overhead electrical lines and new tram signals. The work will be phased overnight and no daytime closures are planned to minimise disruption to local businesses and residents.

Cllr Mark Smith, Cabinet Member for Business Enterprise and Job Creation said, "The steelwork being erected is a significant step forward as passers-by can start to see the new hotel and restaurant really taking shape. Despite the year we have had, the build programme remains on schedule and that's testament to the professionalism of the development team involved in this important regeneration project.

"We understand that the High Street closure will be inconvenient for some and we apologise in advance but the disturbance will be worth it in the end, with better transport, new services and more jobs for local people."

Robertson Group have established connections with various local employment partners to bring in apprentices and interns to site when restrictions are fully lifted. This includes Calico, Procure Plus and Blackpool & Fylde College. They are also working with local schools and colleges to provide various employment support sessions, virtual work placement experiences and graduate support to students interested in construction, and are engaging with Job Centre Plus to provide employment support to people interested in the construction industry.

Image caption (L-R): Cllr Mark Smith; Antony Hill, Blackpool Council; Dirk Pittaway, Robertson; Alan McBride, Muse; Steve Ramsden, Robertson and Mike Horner Muse