Blackpool City Centre Planters

Client

Blackpool Council

Location

Sectors

Products & Services

Project overview

We partnered with Blackpool City Council to enhance two key locations within the seaside city through the design and installation of bespoke planters and complementary street furniture. Delivered as part of the council’s long-term regeneration strategy and building on our previous installations, the project focused on improving the quality and character of the public realm. The interventions contributed to a more attractive, welcoming environment while positively influencing how people experience and use these spaces.

Goal

The goal of the project was to create a greener, more accessible and enjoyable city centre environment for residents and visitors. Street furniture was strategically positioned to support comfortable use of public transport, encourage people to pause and spend time in the area, and help increase footfall to support local businesses.

Scope

The project was delivered across two key locations leading towards the seafront: the area surrounding North Station Tram Stop and Queens Square. The Tram Exchange site includes 38 powder-coated steel planters and 12 benches, finished in Pearl Orange (RAL 2013). At Queens Square, the scheme comprises 19 powder-coated steel planters and 16 benches, finished in Gray Blue (RAL 5008). The component designs at both locations are part of our Galanthus and Tulipa street furniture ranges

Solutions

To create a more vibrant and accessible town centre, our approach was tailored to both the aesthetic and human needs of the space. Each installation was carefully considered to enhance the visual identity of Blackpool while supporting local movement, businesses, and everyday use. From planter dimensions to planting schemes, every detail was designed to integrate with the surrounding infrastructure. The result is a functional, welcoming streetscape that encourages people to stop, sit, and engage with the town centre.

Complementary Planting Scheme

The plant mix was designed to complement the colours of the planters and create visual interest. A selection of flowering blues, pinks and purples were selected to complement the 'gray blue' planters at Queens Square, while oranges, yellows and whites were chosen for the 'pearl orange' planters at the Tram Exchange.

Seating Features

Integrated seating features were designed with accessibility in mind, providing comfortable resting points for pedestrians while encouraging longer dwell times within the space.

Built around existing Infrastructure

All planters were carefully measured and designed to fit existing infrastructure, aligning with railings, floor and car parking layouts to maintain clear pathways and avoid disruption. Additionally, the install locations are convenient to many local businesses which provides them with extra seating to amplify summer operations and time spent in the area/

Tree Integration

Selected planters incorporated trees, helping to reintroduce greenery and vertical interest to the high street while supporting urban biodiversity.

Impact

The interventions have helped transform key areas of Blackpool’s town centre into more inviting, people-focused spaces. By improving visual appeal, accessibility, and comfort, the installations encourage increased footfall and longer dwell times. The added greenery softens the urban environment while reinforcing a sense of place. Together, these changes support both the local economy and the everyday experience of residents and visitors.

Enhanced Visual Identity

The coordinated use of colour, planting, and form has strengthened the visual character of the town centre, creating a brighter and more cohesive streetscape.

Increased Dwell Time

Comfortable seating and attractive planting encourage people to pause, sit, and spend longer in the area, supporting nearby businesses.

Reintroduced Greenery

The integration of planting and trees has brought natural elements back into the high street, improving environmental quality and contributing to a more welcoming atmosphere.