Some of Blackpool‘s tourist attractions, including the Blackpool Tower, are to be taken over by the council from Merlin Entertainments.
The Blackpool Tower, which has been managed by Merlin for 15 years, will be handed over to the council’s tourism company, Blackpool Tourism Limited, on 1 August.
Within the tower, the authority will oversee the Blackpool Tower Eye, circus, ballroom and Dungeons, as well as Madame Tussauds.
Blackpool Council leader Lynn Williams said in a statement: “In 2010, Blackpool Council bought Blackpool Tower, bringing it into public ownership for the first time to safeguard the future of our much loved iconic landmark whilst also transforming it into a tourist attraction fit for the 21st century.
“Back in 2010, we did not have the skills or knowledge within the town to redevelop the tower into a modern attraction.
“Bringing Merlin Entertainments on board was absolutely the right decision and we have enjoyed a long and successful partnership with them which has brought other quality attractions to the resort.”
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However, Williams said “the time has come to reassess our position”, adding: “The benefits that our amazing attractions bring will be kept in Blackpool.”
Blackpool Tourism Ltd was previously known as Blackpool Operating Company Limited. It already operates Sandcastle Waterpark, and will also oversee the Showtown Museum.
As part of the change, Merlin and the council have entered a new partnership to allow Madame Tussauds and the Dungeons to continue to operate, with Blackpool Tourism Limited running both attractions under franchise from Merlin.
Kate Shane, managing director of Blackpool Council’s leisure portfolio and previously regional director at Merlin, said: “Bringing all these key attractions under the umbrella of one company is a bold move but the right one to deliver the ambitions of the resort that punches above its weight.”
She said, “Blackpool Tourism Ltd is dedicated to creating local employment opportunities, supporting cultural heritage and delivering tangible social impact, ensuring a sustainable vibrant environment for both our guests and our local communities.”
Andy Turner, Merlin’s regional director of Gateway attractions at Merlin, added: “We fully support the local authority’s desire to see these attractions return to local management, and we welcome the clear direction the council leadership has provided.”
He added, “We look forward to continuing to work collaboratively with the council over the months and years ahead.”
