Getting Connected in Blackpool

Morgan Sindall, in collaboration with Blackpool Council and Blackpool & The Fylde College, hosted a Getting Connected event to help build meaningful connections with local subcontractors, suppliers, and social enterprises.

Approximately 200 people attended the event, which was organised by Morgan Sindall to support its work on the upcoming Multiversity project—a new home for Blackpool & The Fylde College that will bring up to 3,000 students and staff into Blackpool town centre. Multiversity was procured via the Pagabo framework.

The event, hosted at the college’s Lancashire Energy HQ facility, saw local subcontractors, suppliers, and social enterprises from Blackpool and the wider Lancashire area connecting with Morgan Sindall and its Tier 2 supply chain partners, currently engaged in the Multiversity procurement process. Additionally, 50 T-Level students from Blackpool & The Fylde College attended to explore placement opportunities with exhibitors.

The Event

The event began with presentations from Morgan Sindall’s Area Director, Steven Gregory, and Contracts Manager, Ben Wolstenholme, who introduced the company and outlined the Multiversity project scope and trade packages to be procured. Senior Social Value Manager Gill Roberts provided advice on accessing supply chain opportunities within the project and explained the services and support offered by exhibitors.

Blackpool Council Project Director Anthony Hill shared details of the Talbot Gateway investment portfolio and highlighted the Multiversity project as a key element of these plans. Blackpool Council Social Value Coordinator Aimi O’Donnell shared the vision of leaving a lasting legacy through collaboration, local procurement, and sustainable construction techniques. She also emphasised the potential for creating apprenticeships, upskilling the workforce, and inspiring future talent.

Alistair Mulvey, Chief Operating Officer at Blackpool & The Fylde College, underlined the significance of the Multiversity as a groundbreaking initiative. He encouraged attendees to collaborate with the Multiversity to shape qualifications and curricula that address the evolving needs of the local workforce while exploring apprenticeship opportunities.

The remainder of the event was dedicated to networking between exhibitors and attendees, fostering valuable connections that will contribute to the success of the Blackpool Multiversity project and future initiatives.

Support from our partners

Members of Morgan Sindall's supply chain, currently engaged in the procurement process for the Multiversity scheme in key trade packages such as Building Services, Groundworks, Structural Steel, Brickwork, and Glazing, exhibited at the event. Many of these partners offered work placements and other opportunities to T-Level students from Blackpool & The Fylde College who were in attendance.

Multiversity architect Hawkins Brown joined the Morgan Sindall team at the event, hosting a dedicated project stand that showcased detailed plans and architectural drawings of the building.

Support partners also present included Business in the Community, Local Supply Chain (LSC), We Are Footprint, and the Morgan Sindall Labour Desk and Materials Desk. These partners provided practical advice and insights on accessing supply chain opportunities as well as recruitment and training resources.

Quotes

Blackpool Council Project Director Anthony Hill said:

The Talbot Gateway investment portfolio exemplifies Blackpool Council's dedication to regenerating a derelict area into a vibrant, sustainable central business district. Over the past 16 years, we’ve focused on projects that drive economic growth, enhance public transport, and create spaces that benefit the community. Key developments like the Multiversity demonstrate our ambition to deliver cutting-edge education facilities and support local businesses, ensuring Blackpool continues to thrive for generations to come.”

Alistair Mulvey, Chief Operating Officer at Blackpool & The Fylde College said:

The Multiversity represents a transformative step forward for Blackpool, addressing the region’s challenges in higher education attainment and workforce development. By offering flexible entry points and a curriculum shaped by employer input, we aim to equip individuals of all ages with the skills needed for sustainable, high-quality employment. Collaboration is at the heart of this initiative, ensuring the Multiversity not only meets the needs of today’s workforce but also inspires the next generation to thrive in professional and technical roles."

Steven Gregory, Area Director at Morgan Sindall said:

At Morgan Sindall, we are committed to delivering projects that not only meet the highest standards of quality, safety, and efficiency but also leave a lasting positive impact on the communities we serve. For the Multiversity project, this means prioritising local supply chain development, supporting SMEs, creating local employment opportunities, and engaging the next generation through apprenticeships, training and education partnerships. Working collaboratively with our project partners, and focusing on our Perfect Delivery pillars, we ensure that the Multiversity project supports growth and delivers real value for Blackpool.”