SOUTH Shore can look forward to a £400,000 golden mile of art to form a unique gateway to the UK's premier resort.

Blackpool Council and the Blackpool Challenge Partnership are planning one of the largest public art projects in the country to enhance South Promenade between Starr Gate and the Pleasure Beach where massive new sea-defences are nearing completion.

Over the next few weeks residents will be asked the type of artworks they would like to see along the mile-long embankment. Cultural services assistant director Pat Hansell said: "We're hoping to have a new approach for Blackpool that will be really exciting, impressive and different.

"Among the ideas being considered are sculptures using light, interactive projects and pieces that will demonstrate a scientific principle - but we want to work with the public and find out what they want. "A lot of the costs will be in construction as whatever we choose will have to be solid enough to withstand winter gales and saltwater.

"But the artists we've consulted are fascinated by these difficulties, they regard it as a challenge.

"I've also been surprised how keen they are to work in Blackpool because everybody's heard of it, their work will be seen by millions of people and it will be on such a big scale.

"After all, we already have one of the biggest public artworks in the world in Blackpool Tower."

Other recent public artworks, like the Angel of the North, have helped regeneration by raising the profile of the area and attracting new investment, pointed out Mrs Hansell.

Over a four-year period, Blackpool Council plans to put in £160,000, Blackpool Challenge Partnership £228,000 and the South Shore Hospitality Group of local hotels and businesses £4,000.

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