Plans to transform an area of Blackpool into a £220million business district were expected to move a step closer last night.

Blackpool Council’s executive committee were expected to approve the redevelopment of the Talbot Gateway scheme at a meeting last night.

Muse Developments will present the committee with its plans to deliver a 10 hectare mixed-use scheme on the edge of the town centre. If the plans are approved a development agreement is expected to be signed shortly.

The scheme aim’s to transform the area into a new business district with an attractive, pedestrian-friendly, civic and cultural quarter for the town, including offices, a food store, shops, cafes and restaurants, along with residential apartments, town centre parking and a transport interchange.

Doug Garrett, chief executive of ReBlackpool said: “The Talbot Gateway is a vital component of Blackpool’s Masterplan to re-establish the town centre as a first choice for business and retail.

“Having a dedicated business district will undoubtedly attract more businesses to the area and provide lots of opportunities for investment that will help facilitate the growth of the town.

“ReBlackpool is focussed on creating a new business landscape that will increase prosperity and employment in the town, making Blackpool a better place to live, work and play.”

Muse Developments was selected as preferred developer for the scheme by ReBlackpool and Blackpool Council in 2007. The legal agreement surrounding the development is now all but finalised and an outline planning application for the Talbot Gateway scheme is expected to be submitted in spring 2009 with a start on a first phase anticipated in 2010.

Mike Horner, regional director of Muse Developments, said: “The development of the new business district, through Talbot Gateway, is a very exciting project for Blackpool which will combine high quality buildings and attractive urban spaces to provide a vibrant mixed-use quarter for the town and a new destination for local residents.

“The scheme will strengthen the town centre and is vital to help generate much needed investment and re-establish Blackpool as a major town.”