New sea defences to protect Blackpool beaches

Blackpool is in the midst of huge investment with some massive projects either underway or in the pipeline, therefore why not keep abreast of the latest Blackpool news by visiting Blackpool.com on a regular basis.

New sea defences to protect Blackpool beaches

Blackpool’s beaches are hugely popular with visitors and locals alike, therefore the news that £11million is to be spent on protecting them from coastal erosion has been welcomed.

Groynes

The problem of sand being washed away from Blackpool’s famous beaches has been present for many years, however new measures are set to be put in place which will help address the issue and alleviate future problems of erosion. £11 million is to be spent on ‘Groynes’, structures set at low level which will trap sand and help dissipate any wave energy, thus stabilising the beach. The works at Anchorsholme will be financed by the Environment Agency.

Existing schemes

This new work comes alongside existing multi-million pound schemes which are continually replacing and upgrading sea defences along the promenade, while a further £100 million will be spent in the coming years on other coastal protection schemes.

Management projects

The Environment Agency has earmarked around £61 million to upgrade and replace sections of the coastal defences to the north of Blackpool, while a further £57 million will be spent on beach management projects between South Pier and Cocker Square. These schemes will help address beach levels for the foreseeable future as well as ensure that the life of the sea defences are extended well into the future. The projects will also help ensure that the risk of flooding for over 10,000 households will be minimised.

First line of defence

Environment Agency coast engineer, the aptly named Andrew Shore, said: “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.”