Former councillor Tony Williams has emphasized the need for Blackpool to build a large arena to compete with other cities for major entertainment events. He points to the failure of the £300m Blackpool Central leisure plan as a chance to create a modern venue on the site. Williams, known for his music career with Stealers Wheel and Jethro Tull, states that the lack of a sufficient venue restricts Blackpool’s cultural potential and prevents it from attracting top artists. Support for the arena has also been voiced by local MP Chris Webb and residents.