I'm delighted that Labour will be returning to Blackpool

Ian McCartney

Decor, disabled access and meeting rooms have all been improved following the party's controversial 1998 decision to stay away from Blackpool.

The quality of the Winter Gardens' facilities and size of the main hall were factors in the move.

At the time party leader Tony Blair said the decision was also made because the NEC had been offered a better deal elsewhere.

Delegates are also known to have complained about the quality of hotels and room rates.

Businesses in Blackpool were dismayed at Labour's decision because autumn conferences offer a major economic boost after the summer season has ended.

MPs concerned

Concern was also expressed by north west Labour MPs.

This year's Labour conference was held in Brighton - and will be again next year - but for 2002, between 29 September and 3 October, delegates will be back in Blackpool.

NEC member Ian McCartney, the Cabinet Office minister, said: "I'm delighted that Labour will be returning to Blackpool, following the improvements that have been made to the Winter Gardens.

"Labour's annual conference is the biggest in Europe and I'm sure it will be a great success in Blackpool."

Last week, it was announced the TUC would also return to Blackpool for its 2002 conference.

'Conferences vital'

Blackpool borough council leader George Bancroft said: "It is excellent news that the Labour Party and the TUC are returning to Blackpool."

"Conferences are vital to the town's economy and we are committed to working together to deliver all the resources required for a modern political conference.

"I would also like to congratulate all those people in the town who have worked extremely hard to achieve this stunning result."

Cardiff is also celebrating after the NEC announced Labour's 2002 spring conference, which will attract at least 3,500 accredited visitors, will be held in the Welsh capital.