£27M flood alleviation scheme unveiled in Anchorsholme, Blackpool

A £27M infrastructure project intended to reduce flood risk to some 4,800 properties in Anchorsholme, Blackpool has officially opened.

The flood alleviation scheme at Anchorsholme will safeguard Blackpool’s iconic seafront tramway, which is enjoyed by the thousands of visitors each year. It will also protect vital infrastructure and a major pumping station.

A kilometre of concrete sea wall has been replaced to preserve access to the beach, while a new promenade is providing residents and visitors with views over the Irish Sea. The promenade also links the seafront to nearby Anchorsholme Park, which is currently being redeveloped. The new measures will help preserve Blackpool’s tourism and recreational income for the next 100 years.

The scheme forms part of the Fylde Peninsula Coastal Programme – a partnership between the Environment Agency and Wyre, Blackpool and Fylde councils to reduce flood risk and develop historic and natural environments. Anchorsholme together with the Rossall project – due to be completed next year – form one of the largest coastal defence projects in the country.

Emma Howard Boyd, Chair of the Environment Agency, said: “Blackpool’s iconic beachfront is visited by thousands of families each year. This new coastal defence, delivered in partnership with local councils, will better protect the town’s popular tourist attractions as well as nearly 5,000 homes and businesses. It’s great news and demonstrates how our work benefits people and the environment.”

Floods Minister Thérèse Coffey said: “Anchorsholme’s new sea wall was made possible thanks not only to £20 million of government funding, but also the huge support of local government and other partners. The result is brilliant news for the community – regenerating the area and providing better protection for almost 5,000 homes and Blackpool’s iconic tram network ahead of winter.”

The Blackpool Council project has been funded by the Environment Agency through government grant aid and delivered by Balfour Beatty.

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