New Blackpool Council Building

The Municipal Building

The site on Corporation Street, FY1 1LY, previously occupied by Boots the Chemist, became an extension to the Town Hall in 1977. This building is primarily used for Blackpool Council offices and the DWP Job Centre Plus. It also serves as a customer service point with facilities like interview desks, computer access, and phone terminals. It houses various council departments and staff, handling a wide range of services for residents, such as bin collections, council tax, and more. This is also where job seekers can access support and services related to employment and benefits.

The New Office Building – 2014

It was designed by AHR and situated at Talbot Gateway, represents a significant effort to address the town’s urban decline and serve as a catalyst for regeneration. The construction of this ambitious project began in January 2013 and was completed in April 2014, marking a crucial step in the broader redevelopment of the area. This five-storey office building is a key element in the overall revitalisation of Talbot Gateway, a pivotal part of Blackpool’s transformation strategy. The design aims to not only modernise the area but also to act as a symbol of renewal, demonstrating Blackpool’s commitment to urban improvement and sustainable development.

Spanning 7,896 square metres of net internal office floor space, the building is designed to meet high environmental standards. It is proposed to achieve a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating, which indicates a commitment to superior environmental performance and sustainability. The office building includes retail and office spaces on the ground floor, offering a blend of functions that enhance the building’s integration into the local community. Additionally, it features essential plant accommodation both at ground level and on the roof, supporting its operational needs. To achieve an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of A, the building’s design underwent detailed thermal modelling and testing. This process was critical in developing the façade, optimising daylight penetration into the office spaces, and enhancing energy efficiency. The façade incorporates vertical fin solar shading on the southeast and southwest elevations to minimise solar heat gain, thereby reducing the building’s cooling load and contributing to its overall energy efficiency.

The thoughtful design and strategic features of this office building underscore Blackpool Council’s broader goals for urban regeneration. By integrating modern, sustainable practices with a focus on community and functionality, the new office building at Talbot Gateway is set to play a pivotal role in rejuvenating the town and setting a precedent for future developments in the area.