Infrastructure Investment Drives New Growth Phase for Blackpool Airport Enterprise Zone

BLACKPOOL — Blackpool Council is moving forward with a major new phase of investment and prudential borrowing for the Blackpool Airport Enterprise Zone, following recommendations to the Council Executive. The decision marks the rollout of advanced infrastructure projects meant to release premium development plots and reinforce Blackpool’s position as a regional hub for technology and industry.

The news follows the successful completion of the £18.4 million Vickers Way spine road, which officially opened to traffic to connect Common Edge Road with Amy Johnson Way. This critical artery has unlocked 10.5 hectares of previously inaccessible prime commercial land. The next step of the master plan involves a detailed planning application to build a series of industrial units to the east of Blackpool Airport.

Laying the Groundwork for Silicon Sands

The upcoming wave of development will be instrumental in clearing physical space for Silicon Sands, Blackpool’s ambitious 144-hectare data center and high-tech business park.

By building out the eastern plots, the council aims to systematically relocate and upgrade aging airport facilities. The infrastructure overhaul includes:

• Substation & Network Upgrades: Engineers are delivering a £7.5 million reinforcement of the electrical grid, constructing a brand-new primary substation directly on airport grounds to meet an increased 30MVA capacity demand.
• Green Energy Integration: Plans are actively moving forward for a large-scale solar farm on airport property, with formal planning submissions anticipated by the end of the year.
• Commercial Potential: While the facility remains focused on corporate aircraft, general aviation, and flight training, rebuilding old airport infrastructure improves long-term commercial sustainability and keeps doors open to potential passenger flights down the line.

Long-Term Economic Impact

The Blackpool Airport Enterprise Zone is already home to more than 200 operational companies employing roughly 4,000 individuals. Local officials https://backpackersblackpool.com/ project that the newly unlocked commercial plots will pave the way for modern logistics operations and tech hubs, ultimately bringing the total job creation to 5,000 new roles by 2041.

Councillor Mark Smith, the Cabinet Member for Economy and Built Environment, emphasized that these capital investments are creating the ideal conditions for private sector growth, securing long-term economic stability for the entire Fylde coast.