Fylde Council have announced that as the cost of building supplies to soar the controversial new Ice Cream Kiosk at Fairhaven Lake project (featured photograph) can no longer be delivered in its present concept due to financial constraints.
It was earlier this year that, following extensive public consultation, Fylde Council announced ambitious plans to build a brand-new kiosk located at Fairhaven Lake. The current kiosk, which has been owned and operated by a local family since the 1970s via a long-term lease and sits upon Council owned land, has been popular amongst residents and visitors alike for many decades (pictured below).
The new kiosk was designed to deliver a modern and aesthetically pleasing building that was said to sit proud amongst the majestic scenery. Constructed from various materials, namely steel, it was hoped that the new kiosk would provide residents and visitors a place to enjoy a beverage or ice cream whilst taking in the surrounding views of Fairhaven Lake and beyond.
The investment was part of a £25million regeneration scheme that would see improvements to the sea defences, and the new kiosk would further enrich the environment whilst future-proofing Council assets.
The Council says, ‘Regrettably, due to the complexities of the current market which has caused the cost of building supplies to soar, the scale and nature of the project can no longer be delivered in its present concept due to financial constraints. Since its initial conception, the build costs for this project have increased by 20% which the Council cannot justify. The desire to continue with the project is great, and the Council is fully committed to delivering a new Fairhaven Kiosk in line with the original budget.’
Councillor Michael Sayward, Chairman of Tourism and Leisure, said: ‘Factors out of our control have called for us to re-think our plans for Fairhaven Kiosk. We are still keen to progress with the kiosk and we are exploring all options that will complement and enhance the surroundings whilst delivering a cost-effective solution.’
3 Responses
I’m so glad this won’t be built in the illustrated design. It’s breathtakingly ugly. Just looking at it makes me feel on edge!
i agree with Sue leave it alone,the ice cream is deelish. Stu.
I understand the delay but I do hope that the re development goes ahead sooner rather than later. The current building is way past its best and now totally out of keeping with the new promenade.