Blackpool's iconic beaches are under threat from coastal erosion, prompting environment chiefs to allocate an additional £11 million for sea defences. Blackpool Council has secured this funding from the Environment Agency to carry out extended sea defence works in Anchorsholme, aiming to combat beach lowering.
The proposed solution includes constructing groynes—rocky barriers extending into the sea—to trap sand and reduce erosion risk.
A council report from March highlighted that "the beach levels are lower than expected" and warned of the potential loss of the beach without intervention. Factors such as rising sea levels, climate change, and increased storminess were cited as causes for the concerning changes.
Councillor Jane Hugo, cabinet member for climate change, said: "We have a comprehensive plan in place for our coastline to prevent the devastating consequences of coastal erosion. Over the coming years more than £100m will be spent on coastal protection schemes. It is not a one size fits all solution. Three different schemes will designed to address the specific issues faced."
She added: "Over the coming weeks we will be sharing the plans for Anchorsholme with residents, businesses and visitors in a series of public events."
The ambitious £27m Anchorsholme Coast Protection scheme, finalised in 2017, met challenges requiring additional work to the headland, sanctioned by the Environment Agency in 2016, reports .
Investigations conducted over the past two years have identified accelerated beach lowering concerns at Anchorsholme. Consequently, the Environment Agency has earmarked £61m for upgrading and replacing coastal defences in the town's northern stretches.
Furthermore, a separate £57m has been allocated for a beach management plan spanning Cocker Square to South Pier, aimed at buoying beach levels to extend the lifespan of vital sea defences. Environmental engineer Andrew Shore from the Environment Agency said: "The Environment Agency is really pleased to be working with Blackpool Council and the local community on improvements to the Anchorsholme scheme. The works will stabilise and encourage the growth of healthy beach levels which are a critical first line of defence against rising sea levels caused by climate change."
This suite of initiatives is anticipated to significantly diminish the risk of coastal flooding, safeguarding upwards of 10,000 homes.
Don't miss the latest news and analysis with our regular North West newsletters – sign up here for free
