As Stanley Park celebrates its centenary in 2026, we were proud to join forces with our neighbours at Central Insurance to help give one of Blackpool’s most recognisable landmarks a well-deserved refresh.
Based in the original gatehouses on either side of Stanley Park’s main entrance, James Scott Associates and Central Insurance jointly funded the redecoration of the historic entrance gates, contributing towards the continued upkeep of the park during this important milestone year.
Stanley Park first opened in 1926 and has welcomed generations of Blackpool residents and visitors. The distinctive main gates remain one of the first things people see when arriving at the park and have become a familiar part of the local landscape.
JSA’s role in the project
As a Chartered Building Surveying practice, we were also pleased to take an active role in bringing the project together.
JSA arranged the contractor responsible for the redecoration works, managed the programme and oversaw the work as it progressed. We also liaised with Blackpool Council throughout the project to help ensure the works were coordinated effectively.
For us, the project was particularly meaningful given our location right at the entrance to the park.
Scott Leadbetter, Director at James Scott Associates, said:
“Stanley Park holds a very special place in our hearts and, being based at the Gate House, we see every day just how much the park means to the people of Blackpool.
“Its centenary is a fantastic milestone, and we are proud to be able to play a small part in celebrating its history and helping to look after such an important part of our town for future generations.”
A local project for a local landmark
The project was also welcomed by Blackpool South MP Chris Webb and Cllr Shaun Brookes, who visited the gates and our office in September to meet the teams from JSA and Central Insurance and hear more about the project.
Chris Webb MP said:
“For a hundred years Stanley Park’s main gates have welcomed generations of local families and communities to gather, rest, play and enjoy our most prized green space. As locals we have all passed through these historic iron gates countless times and it’s only fitting that they should get a makeover for the park’s centenary.”
Central Insurance Director Chris Reece added:
“The gates have been home to our office for almost a decade, so when the opportunity arose to contribute to the centenary, we jumped at the chance.
“As a locally owned business, we are extremely proud of our town, and Stanley Park remains one of its best assets.”
The completed redecoration gives the historic gates a fresh appearance while helping to maintain an important part of Stanley Park for residents and visitors to enjoy.
For two businesses based right at the park entrance, it was a great opportunity to give something back to the surroundings we are proud to call home and to help mark 100 years of Stanley Park.