In a report published in local press in Blackpool by reporter Shelagh Parkinson and on television news stations in the region, the future of the Winter Gardens complex could be under considerable threat after losses of over £2.7 million were announced.

Little purpose

The Blackpool Gazette newspaper was shown a leaked report that stated that the Winter Gardens had, “…little purpose in the modern world".

Loss

Owners Leisure Parcs, who sponsor the Spring Festival series of contests, have lost almost £1m in the past year, a total only mitigated by the success of the Empress Ballroom in attracting fee paying events.

However, when the central ballroom itself is taken out of the accounting equation it is rumoured that the venue has in fact racked up losses to £2.7m, casting doubt over the future some elements including the Opera House, the Pavilion Theatre and the Spanish Hall.

...the council has also decided not to extend an annual £1m subsidy to Leisure Parcs to secure the use of the Winter Gardens as a conference venue, but will subsidise individual events instead4BR

Costs

However, the costs of maintaining the building and keeping on top of government legislation has meant significant losses for the Opera House (over £1 million); The Spanish Hall (over £600, 000) and the public areas of foyer and arcades (close to £1 million).

Iconic

Doug Garrett, chief executive of Blackpool's regeneration told the newspaper: "It is iconic in terms of Blackpool, and yes it does need to be retained. We need to keep all that's good about it but we need to look at commercial uses and that means some parts may need to change."

Grant aid slashed

To make potential matter worse, the council has also decided not to extend an annual £1m subsidy to Leisure Parcs to secure the use of the Winter Gardens as a conference venue, but will subsidise individual events instead.

http://www.blackpoolgazette.co.uk/blackpoolnews/Winter-Gardens-has-a-future.5265975.jp