Plans to build new attraction on Fleetwood Pier site gain momentum

A new non-profit company has been set up with the aims of developing the former Fleetwood Pier site into a vibrant attraction and reviving the town itself.

Fleetwood People’s Pier CIC is the brainchild of ex-world champion boxer Jane Couch and George Greenall, who has led community projects in the past.

They have joined forces with Fleetwood business folk Jill Wilson, Fiona Bradford and Darren and Deb Greenwood who become the directors of the new community interest company.

Fleetwood Pier burned down in 2008 and, after demolition and site clearance, there has been nothing there since, although an empty plot in front of the beach still holds potential.

But the CIC team believe there is a golden opportunity to revive this part of the seafront, via a long term coordinated plan.

And they say many people in the town are already right behind them.

The company’s initial aim is to develop a modern site, incorporating a social hub/cafe and a market place built from six wooden huts, a jetty out to sea and possibilities of outdoor events spaces to include a cinema and rides.

The group say their initiative aligns directly with Fleetwood’s long term regeneration priorities by creating employment, improving economic resilience, and providing a modern community focal point.

George said: “Fleetwood People’s Pier CIC has been formed as a non-political, non-profit making organisation. We aim to develop and deliver a strategy which hopes to reverse the ongoing decline of our once prosperous town, since the demise of the fishing industry in the 1970s.

“We have a new community-led vision and we’re looking to kickstart a regeneration mentality within this town’s once thriving community.

“We’ve teamed up with a group of like minded people, to regenerate the former Fleetwood Pier site.”

Jane, awarded the MBE in 2007 for services to boxing, said: “A lot of shops and attractions in Fleetwood have closed down, this town desperately needs reviving.

“By involving local firms in the construction we can keep costs low and make things more affordable.

“Obviously this won’t happen overnight – there are conversations to have, plans to be made, a site to secure and funds to be raised. All that we ask is that the people of Fleetwood rally round and get behind us to make this happen.”

Preliminary talks have already taken place to discuss ideas, with encouragement with former Mayor of Wyre, Cllr Jane Preston, who says ideas to help regenerate Fleetwood are welcome.

The CIC team have set up a Facebook page which people can follow and the team would welcome any suggestions from residents, including ideas for fundraising.

The site can be visited at: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61584942976585