Debate told EU has been vital to investment

North West Euro MP Afzal Khan and Blackpool South MP Gordon Marsden were on hand to answer questions following the discussion on ‘Why the EU Matters’ held at St John’s Church in St John’s Square.

The resort has benefited from European funding including £14m invested in the purchase and refurbishment of Blackpool Tower by Blackpool Council.

Speaking after the event Mr Khan said: “Being in the EU brings huge advantages to Blackpool and the whole of the North West, including crucial investment in things like the Winter Gardens and Blackpool Tower and the thousands of jobs which come from increased trade with the EU.

“I’m not surprised people were saying they wanted the EU to be more transparent. With the Parliament being so far away it can sometimes be difficult for people to find out about all the good work that is being done.

“I want to change that and hopefully by holding more public events like this one I can break down the barrier and bring the EU closer to people across the North West.”

Mr Marsden, said: “As the local MP for 18 years, I have seen the positive difference European funding has made, right across the town, on projects of all sizes.

“From support for projects to deliver online and computer skills to disadvantaged residents, to contributing to major projects that have been landmarks in Blackpool’s regeneration.

“Our discussion was a very informative one covering a broad range of issues.”