The Blackpool Tower situated in the North West of England opened its doors last week after undergoing a gruelling ten month revamp
, which cost approximately £250 million. However, not everyone will be trying out the new developments in the tower, as one in particular requires a very good head for heights.
The new feature in question, called ‘The Tower Eye’ is a 4.15 tonne glass box which will offer spectators a panoramic view from the top of the tower. Also added to the grade I commercial property in Blackpoolis a four dimensional (4D) cinema experience. The cinema will showcase the history of the tower and will be brought to life by using special sensory effects, including seaside and donkey smells. This 4D experience will give spectators the feeling that they are currently sat on the beach front.
The Blackpool Tower has also opened a new dungeon, named ‘The Blackpool Tower Dungeon’ which visitors can walk through to see some of the region’s most ghastly history, such as the Pendle Witch trials and Cromwell’s exploits. The dungeon will also feature a ride and live actors to bring its history back to life. Although the commercial property has undergone extensive work, many of the original tourist attractions do remain, such as the Tower Ballroom and Tower Circus.
Blackpool Council bought the tower back in 2008 and decided it needed a revamp in order to bring it back to its former glory of a must see tourist attraction. The council worked alongside Merlin Entertainments who own major attractions such as Alton Towers, Madam Tussauds, Lego land and The Dungeons to name a few. Nick Varney, Chief Executive of Merlin Entertainments said, “This is a landmark day for Blackpool and the Blackpool Tower. While there is still more work to be done, the tower itself looks fantastic – and has been restored with a great deal of skill and care.”
The original Blackpool Tower design was primary inspired by the Eiffel Tower, and was commissioned by the Blackpool Mayor, John Bickerstaffe in 1889. The tower was designed to fall into the sea if it was to ever collapse and cost a total of £290,000 to build back then. The tower first opened its doors on 14 May 1894 and attracted 3000 visitors per day. Visitors paid six pence to enter the commercial property and a further six pence for every attraction. However, the new developments in the tower have also made a change in history as for the first time, people will not have to pay to enter the tower; they will instead pay for each attraction they wish to see.
Many different musicians and comedians have performed at the top of the tower over the years, which include:
The refurbishment of the tower does not stop here; plans for the future include a retractable roof on the ballroom, a new entrance and improved access. But will the developments entice more visitors to experience Blackpool Tower in this tough economical climate? We will have to watch this space.
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