Anchorsholme coastal defence work begins this month as concerns raised by nearby residents
Construction compounds for the protection scheme to be established soon
Works to establish construction compounds for the Anchorsholme Coast Protection Scheme will begin on 26th January 2024. The scheme aims to protect over 5,000 properties from coastal erosion and flooding, with major works involving beach revetment and rock groynes scheduled for May 2026.
The project, managed by developer Balfour Beatty, has sparked concerns among residents of Little Bispham, particularly those living near the proposed compound site at Queens Promenade. These residents, including those from Wilvere Court apartments, worry about the impact of noise, dust, and light pollution, along with the loss of seafront views.
Local councillor Julie Sloman supported efforts to challenge the compound's planned location during the planning application stage last year. However, Blackpool Council approved the segment, citing greater public need.
Sloman said: “Whilst we are all in agreement the work is necessary, I am aware that some residents aren’t particularly enamoured with the designs for the actual beach aspects, but our main concerns are about the siting and projected duration of the new compound.”
The councillor expressed scepticism about the estimated two-year duration for the compound, referencing similar works that had extended unexpectedly in the past. She highlighted the difficulties in finding an alternative site for future compounds during the next phase expected to affect an area stretching to Gynn Square.
Sloman also added that there is no mechanism for compensation from the council or developers to mitigate the impact on affected properties.
The coastal defence improvements will involve constructing five rock groynes on Anchorsholme's beach and installing a rock revetment atop the sloped seawall. These measures aim to prevent further erosion of underlying clay, which risks the permanent loss of the beach.
Blackpool Council's Cabinet Member for Climate Change, Jane Hugo, emphasised the importance of the works. Hugo said: “This scheme is vital for protecting the community from flooding and for preserving the beach at Anchorsholme for future generations.
“The project team has worked with the local community to develop a design for the hoardings facing people’s properties.
“While we understand the works will cause some inconvenience to nearby residents, if this work does not happen, the community is at direct risk from coastal flooding.”