Several business owners have been left heartbroken after a major fire tore through a commercial building on Waterloo Road in Blackpool’s South Shore.
Fifteen fire engines were called to the scene shortly before midnight on Friday, with crews continuing to work at the site into the following day.
Smart Play, an indoor soft play centre based on the road, said the premises had been completely destroyed. In a social media statement, the owners said they were “absolutely devastated”, adding that all customer deposits for bookings and parties would be refunded.
Neighbouring furniture store Smart Mart also suffered damage but confirmed no one was injured, thanking emergency services for their response.
Blackpool South MP Chris Webb said he had been speaking with displaced residents and businesses, adding that the community had come together in response to the incident while structural assessments are carried out to determine next steps.
Preston’s Encounter Festival programme unveiled
East Lancs man sentenced after driving more than 150mph on M65
St Annes paddling pool set to make a splash again after repairs funding agreed
First Pride in Place funding approved as Burnley’s £20m regeneration plan moves into delivery
Accrington man jailed for six years for rape
