Green light for Blackpool Courthouse as developers urged to expedite construction

Blackpool Council’s planning committee approved a proposal for a three-story magistrates court at Devonshire Road and Talbot Road.

Developers plan to commence construction by the end of autumn, aiming for completion in early summer 2026. The closure of the existing Bonny Street magistrates courts in November heightened the urgency, prompting councillor Julie Sloman to stress the need to “get cracking as soon as possible.”

While the new courthouse is welcomed, concerns were raised during the meeting. Councillor Ivan Taylor, representing Claremont ward, expressed resident worries about traffic safety and on-street parking, particularly at the busy junction of Talbot Road and Devonshire Road. He emphasised the potential for traffic build-ups and suggested either free or low-cost parking on-site to deter overflow into residential areas.

Addressing these concerns, Susan Parker, the head of development management at the council, explained that the main access on Coleridge Road was deemed unsuitable due to its smaller size and secondary status. However, she assured that parking regulations in nearby streets would be reviewed to prevent excessive on-street parking.

Funding for the new courthouse, totalling £48 million, includes £40 million from the Levelling Up Fund and £8 million from the Town Deal. The approved project aims to address the closure of the previous facility and expedite the provision of essential court services on the Fylde coast.