Blackpool Council has backtracked on plans to reduce the length of this year’s Blackpool Illuminations after widespread concern from traders and local politicians. The authority now says the illumination display will run over the full route from Starr Gate to Bispham each night from 4 September 2026 to 3 January 2027, as in recent years.
Decision overturned after complaints from traders and councillors
The reversal follows alarm caused by a post on Blackpool Tourism’s I Love Blackpool Facebook page indicating that only the stretch from Starr Gate to Gynn Roundabout would be illuminated beyond 1 November. That message prompted strong reaction from businesses and local councillors, particularly in Bispham, where traders warned of the economic hit they believed would follow from losing the late-season footfall.
Local Conservative councillors raised concerns about both the substance of the proposal and the way it was communicated. One opposition leader said he intended to gather signatures for a petition when it appeared the Bispham tableaux might be switched off for part of the traditional extended season.
“The illuminations will continue unchanged from last year, running the full stretch from Starr Gate to Red Bank Road every night from September 4 this year to January 3, 2027”
Impact on local businesses and visitor season
Traders in Bispham had warned that many rely on the autumn and winter trade generated by the Illuminations. Comments posted online described fears that families would be deterred and that reduced visitor numbers could jeopardise some small businesses that depend on the months after September.
- Full Illuminations route confirmed: Starr Gate to Bispham (Red Bank Road).
- Season dates: 4 September 2026 to 3 January 2027.
- Council leader issued an apology for the confusion caused by the earlier communication.
What the council has said
Blackpool Council leader Cllr Lynn Williams has apologised for any confusion caused by the earlier post and confirmed the decision that the Illuminations will run over the full, extended route and season that has been in place since 2020. The council did not publish a formal timetable explaining how the original change was posted on the tourism Facebook page, but has moved to reassure residents and businesses that the display will be maintained in full.
The swift reversal demonstrates the sensitivity of public events that underpin Blackpool’s tourist economy and the influence of local opinion. For the coming season, traders and residents can plan on the same extended Illuminations route and dates that they have relied on in recent years.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Route | Starr Gate to Bispham (Red Bank Road) |
| Season | 4 September 2026 – 3 January 2027 |
