A £27 million scheme to reduce flood risk to 4,800 properties in Blackpool was officially opened today (30 October) by Blackpool Council Cabinet Member for Environmental Services, Councillor Fred Jackson and the Chair of the Environment Agency Emma Howard Boyd.
The new defense at Anchorsholme safeguards Blackpool’s iconic seafront tramway, which is enjoyed by the thousands of visitors each year who flock to the quintessential British seaside resort.
A kilometer of concrete sea wall has been replaced, maintaining access to the beach, and a new promenade attracts residents and visitors with views over the Irish Sea. The promenade also links the seafront to the nearby Anchorsholme Park, which is being redeveloped.
The scheme forms part of the Fylde Peninsula Coastal Program, a partnership between the Environment Agency and Wyre, Blackpool and Fylde councils to reduce flood risk to people and develop historic and natural environments.
Emma Howard Boyd, Chair of the Environment Agency , said: “ Blackpool’s iconic beachfront is visited by thousands of families each year. This new coastal defense, delivered in partnership with local councils, will better protect the town’s popular tourist attractions as well as nearly 5,000 homes and businesses. ”
Anchorsholme together with the Rossall project, which is due to be completed next year, form one of the largest coastal defense projects in the country.