Blackpool Council Tourism Company Takes Over Tower, Tussauds, Multiple Attractions

Blackpool Council’s wholly-owned tourism company, Blackpool Tourism Limited, will take over management of Blackpool Tower and Madame Tussauds from Merlin Entertainments starting August 1st. This change expands the remit of the company, formerly known as Blackpool Operating Company Limited, which already operates Sandcastle Waterpark and Showtown Museum. The takeover replaces Merlin’s 15 years of operation on behalf of the council, with the attractions to continue under franchise agreements, marking the first UK franchises for Madame Tussauds and The Dungeons. Council leader Lynn Williams described the move as a bold, ambitious step to preserve and modernize Blackpool’s iconic landmarks while keeping them publicly owned. Merlin Entertainments has expressed full support for the transition and confirmed that existing season passes and tickets will remain valid. The change is seen as a new era for Blackpool’s tourism industry, aiming to safeguard these attractions for future generations while building on the successful partnership established since 2010.