A UK seaside town is launching a £50 million project to stop its iconic beach disappearing and protect thousands of homes, businesses and vital infrastructure from the growing risks of climate change
Blackpool’s iconic seven-mile stretch of golden sands could soon be interrupted by a rocky addition, as a £57 million coastal defence project aims to combat an urgent environmental crisis threatening the town’s homes, businesses, environment and identity.
The Blackpool Beach Management scheme, currently open for public consultation, suggests building 17 rock headlands along the central coastline from just south of South Pier to Cocker Square near North Pier.
The goal is to prevent the beaches from disappearing and safeguard thousands of homes, businesses and crucial infrastructure from the escalating risks of flooding and erosion.
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On its website, Blackpool Council issued a stark warning: “we are losing our beaches” and that “unless urgent action is taken, Blackpool’s iconic beaches could be lost forever.”
Beach levels along Blackpool’s coast have been on a steady decline, and as sand vanishes, the clay beneath becomes exposed, thereby weakening the natural barrier that protects the coast from storms and rising tides.
In some areas, the foundations of historic structures like the Central Pier are now visible, underlining the magnitude of the problem, reports the Express.
The council also highlighted the potential impact this could have on tourism, cautioning that losing the beaches could harm the town’s appeal as 21.5 million visitors flocked to enjoy Blackpool’s seaside golden sands and vibrant promenade in the past year alone.
The proposed headlands, acting like arms reaching out into the sea, will create sheltered bays where sand can settle and remain in place.
Each structure will be around 100 metres long and spaced about 150 metres apart to create a stable environment to trap the natural flow of sand that comes in from offshore.
Infrastructure specialists Jacobs have led the design phase, with construction expected to kick off in spring 2026 and wrap up by spring 2029.
Councillor Jane Hugo, Blackpool Council cabinet member for climate change, stated: “The Blackpool Beach Management scheme is vital for securing Blackpool’s future.
“Climate change is causing a shift in sand levels causing the beach line to lower. If we don’t act now, Blackpool will lose its sandy beaches for good.
“I encourage all residents, visitors and business owners to come along to one of our drop-in sessions to view the plans, speak to members of the project team, and engage with the consultation.”
The council is calling on residents, business owners and visitors to share their thoughts before the planning application is submitted. The consultation runs until Friday October 31, and views can be submitted either online or via paper forms available at Blackpool Central Library.
In-person drop-in sessions are also being held including a major event on Friday September 19 at the Solaris Centre on New South Promenade from 10am to 4pm.
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