Lancaster City Council has secured the long term future of key sections of Morecambe’s coastal defences following the award of capital funding of nearly £10m from the Environment Agency.
This funding will pay for the reconstruction of the Wave Reflection Wall which was installed in the 1980s and is now showing signs of failure, including visible cracking to the concrete face.
The works will be delivered in three 18 month phases with the first phase between Happy Mount Park and Lord Street starting in the Autumn. Subsequent phases will cover the stretch of seafront between the Midland Hotel and Oakley Road.
Councillor Janice Hanson, Cabinet member for Economic Regeneration and Planning, said: “We are delighted to have secured funding for these important works from the Environment Agency.
“Maintaining Morecambe’s coastal defences is clearly a high priority not just in terms of protecting people and property but also to support the ongoing regeneration of the town.
“This is a significant investment in Morecambe’s infrastructure and we will work with the local community to try to minimise the physical impact of the works. Our thanks go to the Environment Agency and everyone who has worked on this bid.”
Andy Shore, NW Coastal Engineer for the Environment Agency, said: “The weather we have experienced across the country over recent years highlights how important it is for communities to be prepared for flooding. Work on the Wave Reflection Wall will ensure homes and businesses continue to be protected for many years to come.”