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Economic Development

More than 1,000 businesses call on Prime Minister to save Blackpool from 'catastrophic' Tier 3 damage

Firms fear closures and hundreds of job losses

Blackpool firms are worried about the impact of the Tier 3 restrictions(Image: Sunday Mirror)

An open letter to the Prime Minister signed by more than 1,000 Blackpool firms has urged him to save the seaside resort from "catastrophic" damage caused by the new Tier 3 restrictions imposed on Lancashire.

Tourism businesses from across the town have penned a letter to Boris Johnson saying the restrictions, which were imposed on the region last week, have meant mass cancellations of bookings ahead of half term - one of the busiest periods of the year.

According to PA, the letter was delivered on Thursday, and firms argued a comprehensive package of aid was needed to prevent businesses closing, and hundreds of jobs being lost.

The restrictions mean a ban on households mixing in most settings, as well as businesses such as pubs and bars not serving food must close.

Kate Shane, head of cluster for Merlin Entertainments, which runs attractions at Blackpool Tower as well as the Sea Life Centre and Madame Tussauds in the town, said: "As a tourism industry we find ourselves in uncharted waters.

"Losing the Easter and May bank holidays was a terrible start to the tourism season, but to lose the most important two weeks of the year in October half-term is catastrophic."

The town's annual illuminations are due to stay on display until January, for two months longer than usual, in a bid to boost tourism.