A £65m regeneration project in the heart of Blackpool will be at risk if land needed for its construction is not allowed to be cleared, a public inquiry has heard.

Nick Gerrard, from Blackpool Council’s growth and wellbeing team, warned that plans to create a “versatile” education center at the resort will need to “go back to the drawing board”.

The inquiry is examining the council’s bid to secure a compulsory purchase order (CPO) for land between Cookson Street, Milbourne Street, George Street and Grosvenor Street.

Independent planning inspector Phillip Ware, based at the Imperial Hotel in the town, is also considering 13 objections to the project.

Mr Gerrard said initial funding for the redevelopment plans included £40 million from the government’s Leveling Up Fund, £16 million from Blackpool Council and £9 million for property acquisition.

Blackpool and The Fylde College, which will manage multi-diversity, will repay £16 million to the council.

If the CPO is approved, construction work will begin immediately, with the first students enrolling from September 2027.

But Mr Gerrard warned: “If we delay we will face rising costs and will have to redesign the budget.

“If this plan doesn’t come forward here, we’ll have to go back to the drawing board.”

Blackpool Council currently owns 70% of the properties required for development but negotiations have stalled in some cases.

That’s why the local government calls the CPO.

Objectors, including George Whyte of George Street, believe the council should consider an alternative site, such as land on Talbot Road, which is currently earmarked for new offices.

But Mr Gerrard said a detailed process concluded the original site was the best option due to its location close to the Talbot Gateway CBD and proximity to public transport.

Sarah Reid KC, previously opening on behalf of the council, said there was “compelling public interest” for the CPO.

He said diversity would help residents gain valuable skills and job opportunities in a town with poor educational outcomes.

The hearing is expected to last until Thursday and then reconvene on December 3 with further evidence from Blackpool Council, Blackpool and Fylde College, architects and planners and objectors.

The decision is expected to be announced early next year.