The Blackpool Beach Management scheme: Saving our beaches, securing Blackpool’s future

A multi-million pound scheme proposed for Blackpool’s central coastline area will go on display to the public this week.

The Blackpool Beach Management scheme is a £57m investment into coastal defences, protecting homes and businesses from flooding and securing the future of Blackpool’s much-loved golden sandy beaches.

The proposals include the construction of rock headlands along the beach, stretching from just south of South Pier to Cocker Square, just north of North Pier. Blackpool Council has been awarded funding for these works from the Environment Agency.

Blackpool is losing its beaches and unless urgent action is taken, they could be lost forever. As a result of climate change, sand levels are lowering exposing the clay underneath, posing a serious risk to sea defences. The beach provides the first line of defence against coastal erosion and flooding during storms by breaking waves.

17 rock headlands around 100 metres long will be constructed on the beach and spaced approximately 150 metres apart.

The rock headlands will create sheltered areas along the coastline, reducing the impact of waves and wind while deflecting tidal currents. This will help trap and retain the natural onshore supply of sand on the upper beach; in turn protecting existing coastal defences and reduce the risks of erosion and flooding.

Residents, visitors and businesses are invited to view the plans and share their views, ahead of the planning application submission.

The consultation will open on Tuesday 9 September. There will also be three drop-in sessions for people to learn more about the scheme and speak to the project team.

The three consultation sessions will be held at the following locations:

·       Tuesday 9 September, 10.00am to 4.00pm: Central Library (Brunswick Room) Queen Street, Blackpool, FY1 1PX 

·       Friday 19 September, 10.00am to 4.00pm: Solaris Centre (Global Room), New South Promenade, Blackpool, FY4 1RW

The consultation closes Friday 31 October 2025.

Cllr Jane Hugo, Blackpool Council cabinet member for climate change, said: “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.”

From 9 September to 31 October, the plans will be on display at Central Library during normal library opening hours, with the exception of 19 September and 23 September. The consultation can be completed online by visiting www.blackpool.gov.uk/BBM or by picking up a paper copy and pre-paid envelope from Central Library on Queen Street.