The Blackpool Central MSCP project began in March 2022 when CBRE reached out to us for our expertise in designing illuminated signage as part of the area’s major regeneration plans. Leveraging our experience, we developed a comprehensive turnkey solution that aligned with the Blackpool Central Elements brand guidelines. We took full responsibility for the specifications and details, offering a solution that met all the requirements.
After receiving the brief, we created and presented a signage visual for approval. The final design included two sets of illuminated signs, each manufactured to different specifications to ensure they were suitable for the environment while providing maximum visual impact. The key elements of the signage were:
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Top and bottom crescents were 135mm deep slimline Econoflex signcases with full aluminium backtrays and colour-enhanced PVC skins.
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The ‘BLACKPOOL’ text featured 100mm built-up aluminium letters with rimless opal acrylic faces and full aluminium backtrays.
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The ‘CENTRAL’ text was made of 100mm built-up aluminium letters with rim & return opal acrylic faces and full aluminium backtrays.
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Galvanised box section secondary steelwork support rails were designed to mount the signage onto the primary steel horizontals.
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Each signage set incorporated internal LED modules for full-face illumination.
Once the designs were approved by Blackpool Council, we received the official order to manufacture and install the signage. Over the next two years, there were several revisions due to changes in the building’s structure and planning restrictions. This required many design updates and site visits to ensure the final installation would meet all expectations.
The most significant challenge we faced was connecting the signage to the building itself. Through numerous design calls and team meetings, we developed a solution to mount the signage through the rainscreen cladding using horizontal box section primary steel supports. These supports were provided by the steel erector and were finished with pre-drilled fixing plates. To attach the signage, we designed secondary box section carry rails, which were pre-drilled and galvanised.
Once this mounting solution was settled, our next challenge was ensuring the compatibility of both the primary and secondary supports, which were outside of our control. Since the primary supports were to be manufactured and installed by others, it was crucial that our CAD drawings were precise. Thanks to our meticulous attention to detail, the primary and secondary supports were perfectly aligned during installation, and no issues arose on-site.
In the end, the project was a success, and we met the client’s brief while exceeding expectations. We received fantastic feedback from all parties involved, and we are extremely proud of the final result.