Ellis Williams Architects has been appointed to develop plans for the expansion of the Grundy Art Gallery in Queen Street and the refurbishment of the Central Library.
Blackpool City Council's £10 million cultural hub was one of the projects set out in the authority's town center action plan adopted last year.
The council is currently seeking feedback from the public to shape the proposals, with a planning application expected to be submitted this year.
Two public information events will be held at Blackpool Central Library on Thursday 8 February 2024, with presentations taking place at 3pm and 6pm.
The council said the project, which has not yet secured funding, will create additional new space to offer a range of cultural activities, events and exhibitions.
The main changes to the Central Library include the creation of a redesigned Shawtown History Center on the upper floor and flexible multipurpose spaces for public lectures, workshops, events, and seminars downstairs.
Grundy Art Gallery's vision is to build a large gallery space in the Queen Street car park to facilitate a wide range of national and international exhibitions.
The plans will create links to connect the library and gallery, as well as widening Queen Street and Abingdon Street.
Dominic Williams, director of Ellis Williams Architects, said: “We recognize that the Grundy Gallery and Library building has deep connections to many local communities, which is why we intend to build a new extension alongside the renovated building.” , celebrates Blackpool's cultural heritage while creating an attractive and accessible building for everyone. ”
Blackpool City Council estimates the project could increase visitor numbers to the Claremont area of the town by around 60,000 people a year.
Cllr Lynn Williams, leader of Blackpool City Council and Claremont Borough Councilor, said: “Blackpool Central Library and Grundy Art Gallery are an important part of Blackpool’s cultural life and are a vital part of the city’s cultural I am pleased that proposals are being submitted to strengthen the proposal.” town.
“While we do not yet have full funding for this project, our recent successful funding application shows that we must be ready to implement our plans when funding becomes available. I did.”
Furthermore, she added: “Grundy Library and Central Library are truly Blackpool’s hidden gems and have so much potential. We need to develop them to provide even more opportunities and services for local residents and visitors. , it is important to make it accessible to as many people as possible.”
The project falls within Blackpool's 'Be Who You Want to Be' cultural initiative to drive positive social, economic and health outcomes in Claremont, which has a high proportion of people who identify as LGBTQ+ The purpose is that.