Members who drive past DWP Norcross may have noticed that the site flattening stage has now nearly concluded/concluded.
Questions are being raised as to when the next stages will commence. The following Q and A responds to some of the commonly raised points:
Q. Remind me what were the next stages according to the employer?
A. Initially the employer indicated that they were working in conjunction with Blackpool Bay regarding the future of the site.
There were then outline planning proposals to Wyre Borough Council to redevelop the site, to include Work, Housing (including Sheltered Accommodation), and Retail etc.
Members who worked at the former DWP Norcross were invited to attend a session and view the plans for the site in the former canteen (which has now also been levelled).
Q. Who are Blackpool Bay?
A. We have been informed that Blackpool Bay was an organisation supported by the local Councils in relation to the Casino Bid (that failed and was cancelled).
Q. So is there a buyer and developer for the former majority DWP Site?
A. We have been reliably informed that there isn’t.
Q. So what about the new work that was earmarked on the plans?
A. Your guess is as good as ours.
Q. So will there be a buyer, when will work start, why were the buildings demolished when DWP management on the Fylde say that space is at a premium?
A. Your guess is as good as ours.
Q. Was the closure of Marton Mere and subsequent movement of 250+ staff from Marton Mere to Warbreck taken into account when the majority of DWP Norcross was decided to be closed?
A. No.
