Concerns raised over planning application which threatens 'only preschool left in Blackpool'

CONCERN has been raised for the future of a number of organisations in Blackpool following a planning application for 42 apartments.

A pre-school and stage school and gymnastics club will be under threat if the apartments get the go-ahead at their site in Brocklesby Street.

Muin preschool employs four staff and provides a service for 18 children with a further ten children availing of its afterschool services.

It is the only preschool remaining in Blackpool.

The Green Rooms in Brocklesby St is also the venue for the Superstars Stage School and gymnastics club which caters for approximately 300 young people.

The stage school teaches a wide range of performance art including drama, musical theatre, dance and ballet.

It’s understood that the planning notice for the 42 apartments was posted outside the building without prior notice to staff or parents, while the school was open last week.

The planning permission, submitted by Developers Compass Homes Ltd, would allow for the demolition of existing structures and the construction of 42 apartments comprising of 23 one-bedroom apartments, 18 two-bedroom apartments and one three-bedroom apartment within four blocks, which will range in height from two to four storeys.

A decision is set to be made by City Hall planners in early February.

More than 80 people attended a meeting that was held on Monday evening and organisers now anticipate a raft of objections to be submitted against the planning application.

Solidarity TD Mick Barry has voiced support for the campaign being waged by parents and staff in the facility: “This is the only preschool left in Blackpool.

“The popularity of the stage school and the gymnastics club speaks both to the quality of the service and the need for such resources on the Northside,” Deputy Barry said.

“Making a threat to the future of these facilities just three weeks before Christmas is like something you would expect from Ebenezer Scrooge.

“I intend to back the campaign to save this school and I hope the community rallies in support of it too,”Deputy Barry added.