A multi-million pound plan to revamp Blackpool Tower is awaiting the green light from council chiefs.
The Grade I listed icon, battered by relentless weather, is in desperate need of a makeover, according to a bombshell council report.
The report, deemed a “vital” wake-up call, claims that the tower’s age and current damage mean it’s in need of an urgent overhaul.
Prudential borrowing of £11 million would be used to pay for the revamp but the overcall cost is estimated at £16.7 million over a 24-year loan period.
It is expected that revenue from the attraction will fund the repayments.
Blackpool Tower rescue mission
The paint that would be used on the steelwork boasts an impressive 20-year lifespan.
But fans of the attraction needn’t worry as it will remain open for business throughout the transformation process, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.
The council report underscores that while some maintenance efforts have been made since it acquired it in 2010, more is needed.
Getting the green light
The council’s executive is set to give the green light to this monumental makeover on September 11, including removal of the existing stair structure, steel, concrete and paint revival on the lift shafts and pit, fresh paint on the tower itself and more.
Scaffolding and wraps around the steelwork will be the unsung heroes of this operation, scaling the 157 metres-tall structure as needed.
But the main attractions, including the Tower Eye, will remain unaffected as the report promises to undertake the work during its off-season wherever possible.
