July2023 – Fylde Council

Fylde Council Invites Community Participation in Shaping the St Annes Events Space Project

Fylde Council — Tue, 25 Jul 2023 09:21:28 +0000

The St Annes Events Space project, part of the St Annes Masterplan, aims to create a dedicated events space in the heart of St Annes Square. This initiative is designed to expand the town’s event offerings, driving greater economic activity and ultimately leading to more footfall, drawing in both residents and visitors.

As the project gains momentum, we would like to encourage members of the public to participate in the ongoing consultation and share their views on the project. Concept designs of the Event Space are available for in-person viewing at the Town Hall during working hours. Visitors are encouraged to explore the designs and offer their valuable opinions, contributing to the creation of a space that reflects the aspirations of the residents, local businesses, and stakeholders. Feedback can be provided until 11th August.

In addition to the in-person exhibition, there is a convenient online consultation form available for those who prefer to share their thoughts digitally. The online consultation enables respondents to provide feedback until 11:45 pm on 11th August.

Leader of the Council, Cllr Karen Buckley said: “We believe that the St Annes Event Space is a project that belongs to the entire community. We highly value the input of our residents, businesses, and stakeholders, as their perspectives are instrumental in shaping a space that will be embraced by all. We encourage everyone to engage with the consultation, either in person at the Town Hall or through our online form”.

The exhibition at the Town Hall will remain open for public viewing even after the consultation period ends, providing people with the opportunity to view the concept designs in person.

To meet the project timeline, the target is to complete the construction of the events space by Summer 2024. This will enable the hosting of events throughout the summer holidays and the remainder of the financial year until March 2025. The Event Space will undoubtedly become the focal point for event delivery in St Annes, complementing other scenic locations like the beach and Ashton Gardens.

For more information on the St Annes Events Space project, and to complete the online form visit https://new.fylde.gov.uk/stannesregen/

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New Tariff Changes Bring Greater Flexibility to Fylde Car Parks

Fylde Council — Thu, 20 Jul 2023 14:42:27 +0000

In an effort to enhance the parking experience and offer increased convenience for residents and visitors, Fylde Council have introduced a transferable parking ticket, effective from 24th July. These changes will provide residents and visitors the freedom to explore multiple locations within the Fylde area without incurring additional costs.

Under the current system, parking tickets are valid exclusively for the car park they are purchased on, causing potential inconvenience and extra cost for those wishing to explore different parts of Fylde throughout the day. However, with the introduction of the new transferable parking ticket, people can now enjoy seamless travel between various long stay car parks (excluding Stanner Bank) for a flat-rate fee of £5 on the day of purchase.

No longer will individuals be bound to a single location; instead, they can enjoy the freedom to explore diverse spots within Fylde without the burden of redundant expenses or the hassle of purchasing multiple tickets. This transformative update means that visitors can park their vehicles in one of Lytham’s long stay car parks, embark on their activities, and subsequently venture to St Annes while utilising the same ticket to park.

Councillor Michelle Morris, lead member of Customer & Operational Services said: “We are thrilled to introduce these changes to our parking tariffs. By implementing this new flat-rate ticketing system, we aim to provide our valued residents and visitors with greater flexibility, making it easier for them to travel around Fylde and enjoy all that our beautiful borough has to offer.”

The updated tariff aligns with Fylde Council’s commitment to delivering exceptional services to the community, prioritising accessibility and user-friendly experiences. It also supports local businesses and encourages tourism by eliminating potential deterrents such as parking-related costs and limitations.

From 24th July onwards, both residents and visitors will have the convenience of purchasing a transferable parking ticket from any pay and display machine at our long stay car parks (excluding Stanner Bank). We’re also actively exploring the option to make ticket purchases available via the app, and we’ll keep you updated on its implementation.

For more information about car parks in Fylde, including charges and the maximum motorhome vehicle lengths permitted at different overnight car parks, visit our dedicated parking webpage.

Fylde Council Allocates Funding for Public Realm Improvement Schemes

Fylde Council — Thu, 06 Jul 2023 08:37:54 +0000

Funding approval has been granted for three public realm improvement project schemes throughout the borough. These projects, made possible through Section 106 contributions, aim to enhance the local communities and provide improved amenities for residents and visitors.

Section 106 contributions play a vital role in UK development. These agreements enable local planning authorities to collaborate with developers, securing contributions for infrastructure and community benefits as part of the planning permission process. The contributions aim to mitigate development impacts and foster community well-being, ensuring holistic development and positive outcomes for residents.

The Executive Committee has approved funding on Tuesday 4^th July for the following projects:

Warton Village Centre – Public Realm Improvement Scheme

The Warton Village Public Realm Improvement Scheme, the initial phase of the Warton Village Masterplan, has been granted £75,000 in funding. This investment will bring to life a brand new play area tailored to children aged 4-12. This collaborative scheme, a result of the joint efforts of Fylde Council and Warton Parish Council, signifies a significant start to the Warton Village Masterplan. The implementation of this Masterplan will facilitate the advancement of village enhancements, progressing in phased stages with funding from both Section 106 contributions and the Parish Council.

Wrea Green – Pedestrian Improvement Scheme

The Pedestrian Improvement Scheme in Wrea Green, proposed by Ribby with Wrea Parish Council, has successfully secured £36,705 from planning contributions. This funding will be used for public realm enhancements and improvements to highways pedestrian crossings. Contributions include £26,705 from a public realm obligation associated with the North View Farm housing development and £10,000 from a highways contribution linked to the housing development off Willow Drive. With a formal agreement in place between Ribby with Wrea Parish Council and Fylde Council, these funds are set to be utilised by the 10th March 2030.

Squires Gate Lane – Upgrading of Signalised Junction

Approval has been granted for a fully funded revenue budget increase of £115,000 for 2023/24, entirely financed by Section 106 contributions. This budget will enable the essential upgrade of the signalised junction at Squires Gate Lane and Lytham Road. The funds will be directed towards improving traffic flow and safety, including the upgrade of existing traffic signals and the introduction of pedestrian request facilities. Blackpool Council, responsible for maintaining Squires Gate Lane on behalf of Lancashire County Council, will oversee and carry out the necessary works.

Councillor Richard Redcliffe, Deputy Leader of the Council said “These projects highlight our commitment to creating inclusive and accessible spaces within our communities. By utilising Section 106 contributions, we can enhance the local infrastructure and provide amenities that benefit everyone. We look forward to the positive impact these improvements will have on the lives of our residents.”

Fylde Council to Construct Two New Changing Place Facilities for Enhanced Accessibility

Fylde Council — Wed, 05 Jul 2023 14:48:44 +0000

A significant number of individuals, including those with profound and multiple learning disabilities, face limitations in accessing standard accessible toilets due to their specific mobility challenges.

These individuals often require specialised equipment or assistance from one or two carers to utilise the facilities or undergo necessary continence pad changes.

Standard accessible toilets, commonly known as disabled toilets, lack essential features such as changing benches and hoists, and most are too small to accommodate more than one person. This lack of suitable facilities puts individuals with disabilities at risk, while families are left with the difficult choice of compromising their own health and safety by resorting to changing their loved ones on unsanitary toilet floors. Such circumstances are both unhygienic and undignified.

To address this pressing issue, Fylde Council embarked on a capital scheme aimed at implementing Changing Places facilities across three locations within the Fylde area. In 2021/22, Fylde Council successfully secured the Changing Places Grant, which played a crucial role in funding these new facilities. The original budget approval amounted to £120,000, with £108,000 designated from the Changing Places Grant Funding, and an additional £12,000 sourced from the Council’s Capital Investment Reserve.

The initial facility, completed in March 2023, is already operational at the North Beach Windsports Centre following its renovation. This development has greatly improved accessibility for visitors. To support the construction of two additional Changing Places facilities, the Executive Committee has granted an additional £40,000 from the Capital Investment Reserve.

The first of the facilities will be situated at Kirkham Community Centre, utilising the existing space and slightly extending the building to accommodate the toilet. The proposed design at Kirkham Community Centre has been approved by Kirkham Town Council. Due to space and budget limitations, the proposed installation of the second facility at Lowther Pavilion is no longer possible. Instead, the facility will be located at the operational boathouse on Fairhaven Lake, with refurbishment plans set for later this year. Both facilities are expected to be completed by March 2024.

Councillor Michelle Morris, Lead Member for Customer and Operational Services said, “We are proud to continue our efforts in improving accessibility across Fylde. The construction of these two new Changing Place facilities demonstrates our dedication to ensuring that everyone has equal access to appropriate facilities. These installations will greatly benefit individuals who require additional support, enabling them to navigate our community with greater ease.”

The introduction of these Changing Place facilities reflects Fylde Council’s commitment to enhancing accessibility and inclusivity throughout the region. By providing dedicated facilities equipped with essential amenities such as height-adjustable changing benches and ceiling hoists, individuals with specific accessibility requirements will have the necessary support to participate fully in day-to-day activities.

To read more about the Changing Places campaign, including opportunities to get involved and an official CPT map showing facilities in your area, visit the Changing Places website. For a list of Council-owned public conveniences, their locations and opening times, visit the Fylde Council website

St Annes Event Space Project Marks Milestone in St Annes Masterplan

Fylde Council — Wed, 05 Jul 2023 13:56:31 +0000

The St Annes Event Space Project, the first initiative under the St Annes Masterplan adopted by the Council in July 2022, is set to transform St Annes Road West into a vibrant hub for hosting events. This exciting development will enhance the existing event venues in St Annes, providing a dedicated facility that aligns with the vision outlined in the masterplan.

The Council’s Executive Committee has given the green light for the fully funded addition of £1.5m to the Council’s Capital Programme, which is made up of £857,000 from the Council’s Capital Investment Reserve, £160,000 funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Programme (UKSPF), £250,000 from Lancashire County Council, and capital virements of £233,000.

The Event Space will serve as a versatile venue for various events to be delivered as part of the St Annes Events Programme, a separate project funded by the UKSPF. This initiative, scheduled for implementation in 2024/2025, aims to foster community engagement and support the growth of St Annes as an events destination. In collaboration with existing partner organisations and potential private events companies, the Event Space will offer a dynamic space for hosting a wide range of activities. Alongside the Event Square, the other key priorities to be addressed are improved lighting, signage and renewed CCTV.

Leader of the Council, Cllr Karen Buckley said: “We are thrilled to announce the St Annes Event Space as the initial project of the St Annes Masterplan. This significant investment reflects our commitment to the economic and cultural development of St Annes, providing a dedicated facility for events to bring visitors into the heart of the town. We are responding to the priority needs of our shopkeepers and business owners who have been clear with their request for an upgrade to the Square that will be flexible enough for festivities and celebrations all year round.”

To meet the project timeline, the target is to complete the construction of the events space by Summer 2024 after a period of consultation with residents, businesses and stakeholders which will inform the final design. This will enable the hosting of events throughout the summer holidays and the remainder of the financial year until March 2025. The Event Space will become the focal point for event delivery in St Annes, complementing other scenic locations such as the beach and Ashton Gardens.

The St Annes Masterplan, formally adopted by the Planning Committee in July 2022, serves as a strategic framework for the future development of St Annes. The masterplan document is available as a background paper, providing further insights into the vision and objectives of the project.

Click here for more information on the St Annes Event Space project and the Masterplan.

Fylde are Getting Active About Economic Inactivity

Fylde Council — Mon, 03 Jul 2023 14:19:46 +0000

An exciting new project with the potential to positively impact the lives of Fylde’s residents is set to commence, thanks to funding provided by the UK Government through Fylde’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund allocation. In the coming weeks, a tender process will be initiated to select a highly experienced organisation to deliver direct support and interventions to individuals aged 19 and above across the Fylde region.

Unemployment and inactivity carry significant consequences for individuals, the economy, and society at large. Currently, over 9,000 individuals in Fylde are considered economically inactive, a figure that is 3.6% higher than pre-pandemic levels, raising concerns.

This newly announced project is part of a comprehensive support programme designed to cater to individuals of all age groups throughout Fylde. It complements the existing support provided by Fylde’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund, which focuses on 16-19 year-olds through initiatives like the ‘Fylde Focus’ project run by AFC Fylde Community Foundation. Tailored specifically for individuals aged 19 to 64, this project aims to assist economically inactive residents of Fylde facing complex life challenges, particularly those who are furthest removed from employment and training opportunities.

Fylde Council Leader, Cllr Karen Buckley, said: “There are many reasons that lead to someone being economically inactive, such as following a period of ill health, redundancy, or having to care for a loved one. It can result in a loss of confidence and a feeling that the job market is out of reach. This project will offer personal help to overcome these barriers and empower people to find the right job or training that is just what they need. Through collaboration with local partners, I believe this project will make a significant difference in the lives of Fylde residents.”

Collaborating closely with local Job Centres, colleges, and other partners, the plan is to offer one-on-one support to individuals, helping them address the difficulties and challenges hindering their path to meaningful employment, training, or volunteering. Through mentoring, training, advice, and targeted guidance, participants will receive comprehensive assistance. They will also be connected to new opportunities and potential partners who can provide work placements and volunteering options.

The tender process is expected to commence shortly, with more details to follow once the service provider has been selected.

To read more about Fylde Council’s UKSPF programme, including the approved Investment Plan, visit the Fylde Council website.

The UK Shared Prosperity Fund is a central pillar of the UK government’s Levelling Up agenda and provides £2.6 billion of funding for local investment by March 2025. The Fund aims to improve pride in place and increase life chances across the UK investing in communities and place, supporting local business, and people and skills. For more information, visit https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-shared-prosperity-fund-prospectus