BLACKPOOL Council are still considering whether to table a bid for city status after a meeting on Wednesday (June 30).

The policy and resources committee was considering whether to submit a formal application following the receipt of a letter from the Home Office regarding the granting of city status.

The letter refers to the intention expressed by the Queen to mark both the Millennium and the 50th anniversary of her accession to the throne by grants of city status.

Council leader Ivan Taylor said: "We already see ourselves as a city by the sea and, in terms of size, we are the biggest town in Lancashire as well as being the UK's number one seaside destination. Put together we think this is a strong case.

"When we became a unitary authority we talked about city status and now the opportunity has arisen we are giving it some thought."

If Blackpool applies it will face competition from towns around the country including possible local opposition from Preston, Blackburn and Salford.

City status is a mark of distinction granted by the sovereign acting on the advice of her ministers. It is a purely honorific status which allows no additional powers or functions, apart from the prestige of the title of city.

It is not a matter which is determined by the application of set criteria but each town applying will be considered for its individual merits.

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