Vision unveiled to develop Blackpool village quarter where you can 'be who you want to be'

manchestereveningnews.co.uk:

Plans have been revealed to develop a village quarter in Blackpool to celebrate the resort’s LGBTQ+ heritage. The vision will build on the existing bars, venues and guest houses in streets near the town centre, including parts of Queen Street and Dickson Road.

The mantra, 'Be who you want to be' would be attached to the neighbourhood. Blackpool Council has already held talks with community leaders with the next step set to be a consultation.

It is hoped the proposal could attract fresh investment and spark regeneration in Claremont where pockets of deprivation are among the worst in the country.

A town hall report says: "The council has been approached by community stakeholders interested in how a celebration of the heritage of the area, its sense of belonging, a warm welcome and community cohesion, can be developed and support investment and regeneration in the wider area – encouraging more day time visitors and ensuring a sense of safety and quality for all.” Try MEN Premium for FREE by clicking here for no ads, fun puzzles and brilliant new features. Blackpool has around 15 LGBTQ+ bars and scores of LGBTQ+ friendly guesthouses mainly clustered around Queen Street, Springfield Road, Dickson Road and Lord Street.