Building Surveys & RICS Valuations in Blackpool

Property Market Trends in Blackpool

Understanding the ebb and flow of the property market in Blackpool is essential for both prospective homeowners and seasoned investors. Knowing which areas are appreciating or depreciating can guide your property-related decisions effectively.

Established Neighbourhoods

• Stanley Park: Renowned for its historic park and character homes, Stanley Park has maintained robust property values, attracting those looking for long-term investment.
• South Shore: An area offering sea views and strong transport links, South Shore has a stable housing market and is particularly popular among retirees.

Emerging Areas

• Bispham: With its suburban feel and local amenities, Bispham is emerging as a desirable location for families.
• Layton: Increasingly benefiting from regeneration projects, Layton is a neighbourhood to watch for property appreciation.

Factors Affecting Market Trends

• Tourism: Blackpool’s reputation as a tourist destination has a seasonal impact on short-term rentals and the hotel sector, indirectly influencing property values.
• Transport Links: The town’s well-connected tram and bus services, along with its railway station, contribute to making certain areas more appealing.
• Local Amenities: The presence of attractions like Blackpool Tower and Pleasure Beach, as well as shopping and dining options, adds to the town’s property appeal.

Arming yourself with knowledge about Blackpool’s property market trends enables you to make astute decisions, whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or invest.

Sources

• Zoopla: Blackpool Property Market
• Blackpool Gazette: Property News

Structural Condition and Common Issues in Blackpool

Before you take the plunge into Blackpool’s property market, it’s crucial to acquaint yourself with the area’s typical structural conditions. From traditional Victorian terraces to modern apartment complexes, here’s what you need to know:

Common Types of Properties

• Victorian Terraces: Full of character but often requiring modernisation, particularly in terms of insulation and electrical systems.
• 1930s Bungalows: Generally robust but may require updates in areas like plumbing and heating.
• Modern Apartment Blocks: Usually compliant with current building regulations but can vary in quality based on the developer.

Structural Issues to Look Out For

• Dampness and Mould: Especially prevalent in older Victorian properties, check for damp conditions in basements and ground floors.
• Roofing: Older bungalows may have roofs that are reaching the end of their lifespan and may require repairs or replacement.
• Balcony Integrity: In modern apartment blocks, make sure balconies are well-maintained, as salt air can accelerate wear and tear.

Key Checks Before Purchase

• RICS Home Survey: A vital step for unveiling hidden issues, potentially saving you time and money down the line.
• Coastal Erosion Reports: Given Blackpool’s seaside location, check local reports for any issues related to coastal erosion.
• Local Amenities: Assess the proximity of local amenities, as these can significantly influence the property’s long-term value.

By familiarising yourself with Blackpool’s prevalent structural conditions, you’ll be in a strong position to make an informed property investment.

Sources

• Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS): Choosing the Right Survey
• Environment Agency: Coastal Erosion Risk Management

Local Amenities in Blackpool

Acquiring knowledge about local amenities is paramount when contemplating property choices in Blackpool. This coastal town in Lancashire is known for its iconic Pleasure Beach, historic pier, and a rich variety of modern conveniences well-suited to diverse lifestyles.

Food and Drink

• Seafront Eateries: Perfect spots for enjoying fish and chips while taking in the sea views.
• Restaurants and Pubs: Blackpool offers a wide range of dining experiences, from international cuisines to traditional British pubs.

Shopping

• Houndshill Shopping Centre: The main shopping hub featuring a mix of high-street brands and boutique stores.
• Local Markets: Several markets and pop-up shops offer everything from local produce to artisanal crafts.

Health and Fitness

• Stanley Park: A Grade II listed park offering various sports facilities, gardens, and a boating lake.
• Fitness Centres: Numerous gyms and leisure centres cater to all fitness needs with modern equipment and classes.

Cultural Venues

• Blackpool Tower: More than just a tourist attraction, it hosts various events and shows year-round.
• Winter Gardens: A historic venue featuring a range of entertainment, from music concerts to comedy shows.

Education

• Schools: Blackpool provides a good selection of state and independent schools, offering diverse educational options.
• Adult Learning: Blackpool and The Fylde College provides various adult education courses and vocational training.

Transport Links

• Blackpool North Railway Station: Offers convenient links to major cities including Manchester and Liverpool.
• Bus and Tram Services: A well-developed public transport system ensures easy travel within the town and to surrounding areas.

Understanding Blackpool’s local amenities is essential for making informed property decisions, whether you’re interested in residential living or considering an investment.

Sources

• Blackpool Council: Sports and Leisure
• Blackpool Gazette: Local News and Features

Commute and Transportation Options in Blackpool

If you’re mulling over Blackpool as a prospective area for property investment or residence, understanding the commute and transportation amenities is key. This guide aims to offer you invaluable information to aid your decision-making process.

Public Transport

• Blackpool North Railway Station: Provides essential train services that link Blackpool to destinations like Manchester, Liverpool, and London.
• Tram Services: The Blackpool Tramway serves the coastline, offering a convenient way to move about locally.
• Bus Services: Companies such as Blackpool Transport provide extensive bus networks within the town and to neighbouring areas.

Car and Motorway Access

• M55 Motorway: Provides a swift connection to the M6, facilitating travel to major cities including Manchester and Preston.
• Primary Roads: The A583 and A587 are important roads for local and regional travel.

Taxis and Ride-Shares

• Local Taxi Services: Multiple local taxi firms operate in Blackpool, catering to both short and long-distance requirements.
• Uber: Is operational in the area, providing a modern, app-based alternative to traditional taxis.

Cycling and Walking

• Local Cycle Routes: Blackpool has numerous cycling paths that are connected to broader regional cycling networks.
• Pedestrian Zones: The town centre and Promenade are pedestrian-friendly, making it easier to navigate on foot.

Future Developments

• Blackpool Council Transport Plans: Efforts are ongoing to improve public transportation and invest in cycling and walking infrastructure to elevate local mobility.

Being conversant with the commute and transportation options in Blackpool can substantially inform your choices, be it for investment or personal residence.

Sources

• Blackpool Council: Parking, Roads and Transport

Planning Permission and Land Covenants in Blackpool

When dealing with property in Blackpool, whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned investor, it’s crucial to understand the intricacies of planning permissions and land covenants to make informed decisions.

Types of Planning Permission

• Outline Planning Permission: This provides initial consent for a development, but further, detailed plans are needed for complete approval.
• Full Planning Permission: This offers a more comprehensive sanction, allowing a variety of construction works such as new builds, extensions, and alterations.
• Permitted Development Rights: Some minor works, like internal renovations or adding a conservatory, may not require formal planning permission.

Common Land Covenants in Blackpool

• Restrictive Covenants: These are limitations set on how you can use the property. For example, you might be restricted from building additional structures or changing the property’s facade.
• Positive Covenants: These oblige the landowner to perform specific actions, usually tied to maintaining shared spaces such as driveways or communal gardens.

Factors to Consider

• Local Plans: Blackpool is under the jurisdiction of Blackpool Council, which has its own set of Local Plans that influence property development.
• Conservation Areas: If the property is situated in a conservation area, additional regulations may apply.

Local Sources of Help

• Blackpool Council Planning Services: This online resource provides information on planning requirements, policies, and application procedures specific to Blackpool.
• Land Registry: Crucial for checking existing covenants and understanding the property’s ownership details.

Tips for Navigating the System

• Pre-application Consultation: It’s often advisable to have a pre-application discussion with Blackpool Council to clarify any questions and mitigate issues before formal submission.
• Legal Advice: Due to the complicated nature of land covenants, it’s recommended to consult with a legal expert to fully understand your obligations and rights.

Armed with this knowledge of planning permissions and land covenants in Blackpool, you can navigate property transactions with increased confidence.

Sources

• Blackpool Council: Planning
• HM Land Registry