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Fylde Council Propose Sea Defence Improvement Works in St Anne’s

Following the successful completion of the sea defence works between Church Scar and Fairhaven Lake, Fylde Council has obtained funding from the Environment Agency to develop a feasibility study to investigate various options for improving coastal erosion and flood risk management at Pleasure Island, St Anne’s.  The existing seawall extends 660m round Pleasure Island.  This was constructed in 1935, and reduces the risk of coastal erosion and flooding to 252 residential properties and 42 businesses. It is one of three strategic headlands which are critical to maintaining healthy beaches, dunes and to reduce the risk of coastal erosion along Fylde Council’s frontage.

However, this seawall is at the end of its design life and is in poor condition. Voids have previously been identified resulting in settlement of the promenade and slipway. The crest level is low and overtops during storms resulting in damage to the promenade, the flooding of two car parks, the swimming pool and fitness centre plant room, and flooding up to the door thresholds of the cinema, casino, amusement and restaurant complex.

The study area extends from Water’s Edge Café at the northern end, to the southern end of the Miniature Links Golf Course. The objective is to reduce the risk of flooding and erosion to businesses and to protect people’s homes. The feasibility study is at an early stage, and a number of alternative options are currently being considered, depending on input and feedback from numerous stakeholders including residents, and businesses.

Fylde Council wish to notify all who are potentially affected at an early stage. Whilst the Council would like the opportunity to host exhibitions and have face to face engagement, due to current Covid-19 restrictions, the options for the scheme will be posted on the Discover Fylde website, for you to view, comment on, and ask questions. The link is:  www.discoverfylde.co.uk/stannesseawall

Options will also be displayed on sign boards at the entrances to the Pleasure Island Promenade.

The aim will be to determine the preferred option in the next few weeks and months, for submission to the Environment Agency later this year.  This approach, however, will continually be reviewed in line with the Covid-19 restrictions at the time.

Councillor Roger Small, Chair of the Environment, Health and Housing Committee said: ‘This is a very exciting next stage on our coastal defence works, following on from Church Scar and Fairhaven. We are confident that the Environment Agency will look favourably on this proposed scheme as we have delivered prior ones both on time and on budget. It is important that residents see these proposals in advance so they can make comments and suggestions. This is a valued part of the process as new ideas and suggestions can form a part of a finished scheme.’

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