These pictures capture the changing face of Blackpool town centre as streets were flattened to make way for Houndshill Shopping Centre.
When it was built in the 1980s, several of Blackpool’s oldest streets disappeared to make way for it including Tower Street, Sefton Street and Water Street. At the time, with a price tag of £5m, Houndshill was one of Britain’s most streamlined and modern shopping centres. It was built by John Laings and when it opened comprised 40 shops, a restaurant and a coffee bar.
The Fylde Water Board, on Sefton Street which occupied this site until its demolition in 1975 to make way for the Houndshill Shopping Centre.
Historical Blackpool Blackpool Through Time by Allan Wood and Ted Lightbown
The police officer in this picture is looking at the spot where two bombs were in a dustbin at the foot of Woolworth's building. The Tower is seen on the right.
Heywood Street, near Woolworth's Blackpool
Some of Revoe's oldest residents seen on May 1 1974 shortly before their homes in Ibbison Street, Blackpool were bulldozed. From left: Alice Radcliffe, Lilian Read, Gladys Williamson, Rose Jones, Dorothy Williamson, Doris Pickles and Joe O'Neill
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