£2.4m investment in the world famous Blackpool Tower

Blackpool Council has today announced a rebranded flagship Harry Ramsden fish restaurant is to open at the Blackpool Tower complex this summer.

A Harry Ramsden restaurant and quick service outlet will be located in the space previously occupied by the Tower Lounge bar, complemented by a further eatery within the Tower complex.

The operator of the restaurant will invest £2.0m into the venture with Blackpool Council contributing £0.4m toward building works.

Councillor Mark Smith, Cabinet Member for Business and Economic Development said “We are delighted to be able to finally announce details of this important development. The private investment being made in Blackpool’s most prominent public asset and the jobs it creates is yet another demonstration of the steps the town has taken in creating a vibrant economy.

“This is a clear message to potential developers – Blackpool is the town to invest in.”

Kate Shane, Head of the Merlin Blackpool Cluster added: “This is a hugely exciting event for Blackpool Tower and the resort as a whole.

“The new restaurant and eateries perfectly complement the Tower attractions, will enhance the customers experience significantly and of course completes the ground floor refurbishment of this very special building.

“This development represents yet another feature cementing Blackpool as the UK’s number one family destination.”

The rebranded Northern Flagship of the world famous Harry Ramsden’s restaurant chain will create 100 new jobs, in addition to safeguarding 30 existing jobs in the town. It is the latest in a series of high class eateries to invest in Blackpool.

Joe Teixeira, CEO of Harry Ramsden’s comments; “With the town continuing to attract record numbers of visitors, we believe the time is right to further invest in Blackpool.

“We are delighted that, as a result of this decision, not only are jobs being secured but new jobs are being created. We are especially pleased that so many of the people currently working on the project are locally based, this in itself gives an immediate boost to the Blackpool economy.”

The new Harry Ramsden’s menu will offer a greatly enhanced selection of options and the development will include state of the art information technology and social media installations, high class interior finishes and the Blackpool Tower quality standard exterior.

Joe Teixeira adds; “Having served the generations for over 85 years at Harry Ramsden’s, we pride ourselves on being a family brand.

“Within Blackpool Tower, as well as memorable visit to a world class attraction, we aim to create an equally memorable dining experience for local and visiting families, in surroundings which the local community can be extremely proud.”