Approval granted for essential cliff stabilisation on Clacton seafront
Tendring District Council moves forward with coastline protection plan
Plans to stabilise Clacton's seafront cliffs and reinforce the coastline have received approval from Tendring District Council (TDC).
The scheme, located at Marine Parade West, opposite Alton Road, will address the failure of an existing tumbled brick wall on the Lower Promenade.
The project involves rebuilding the wall with recovered bricks, installing a buried sheet-piled wall, and adding new drainage to manage water flow through the cliff slope.
Recent water flow through the damaged wall has posed a hazard, particularly during winter, stretching across the promenade.
Once completed, the improvements will remain hidden, preserving the seafront's familiar aesthetic with the rustic brick wall reinstated.
Silent and non-vibrational piling along with trenchless technology for drainage installation will be employed to minimise disturbance.
This initiative aims to prevent cliff failure and mitigate the risk of wider area damage, affecting the promenade, access paths, and clifftop gardens.
Councillor Adrian Smith, TDC’s Cabinet Member for Coast Protection and Engineering, highlighted the significance of these works in safeguarding Clacton’s coastline.
With planning permission secured, TDC will proceed to the next stages and share additional details upon contractor appointment and programme confirmation.
No objections were raised by Historic England and Essex County Council’s heritage specialists, although archaeological investigations are required due to the area's prehistoric significance.
The council anticipates beginning construction in January, aiming for a four-month completion during quieter winter months.
Temporary closures will affect the mid-height cliff path and promenade sections to ensure safety during the construction phase.
The plans were unanimously approved at TDC’s Planning Committee meeting on 14th October.