Consultation launched for Blackpool FC training ground plans

People are invited to give their opinion either online or by going to one of the program’s three public exhibitions starting Tuesday, July 26.

The views will then be taken into account when the club submits its planning application for the development of the Garstang Road site between Blackpool’s Grange Park estate and Poulton’s Baines School.

Blackpool FC chief executive Ban Mansford said: “We know the people of Blackpool and our fans will be delighted to hear more about our plans for the future of the club.

“We look forward to meeting the public and understanding their feedback, which will help shape our plans before submitting a planning application later this year.”

The proposals include eight full-size training pitches, a half-size indoor pitch, a smaller nine-a-side pitch, two small goalkeeper training spaces and a new eco-friendly training center with classrooms, medical areas, offices and a Gym.

There will also be parking for up to 120 cars. About forty jobs will be relocated to the new site and 20 new jobs should be created.

The facility will replace the current outdated Squires Gate Lane training ground and allow first team and academy players to train in the same location for the first time.

A statement setting out the club’s vision for development reads: “New tailored training facilities will provide the setup we need to compete with our rivals and perform at the highest level possible.

“With the new training facilities on offer, we are establishing the necessary framework to build on our recent success and support the club’s ambition to bring Premier League football back to Blackpool.”

Consultation sessions take place on Tuesday July 26 (2.30pm – 7.30pm) at The Matthews Suite, Blackpool Football Club; Friday July 29 (3 p.m. – 8 p.m.) at the municipal hall of Poulton-le-Fylde; and Tuesday, August 2 (2:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.) at @ The Grange, FY3 7RW.

Or they can call a dedicated community information line (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5.30pm) on 0800 652 9460, or send comments and questions to [email protected]