Liggard Brook improvement works to begin

Tuesday, 29 April 2025 at 11:33

By Central Radio News

Work to enhance the ecological health of Liggard Brook in Lytham will commence next week.

In partnership with United Utilities, Fylde Council have instructed Great Oaks Tree Services to undertake targeted reduction of the tree canopy covering Liggard Brook between Graving Dock Bridge and the Railway Bridge to the south of Mythop Road Allotments.

This carefully planned intervention aims to revitalise the watercourse by allowing partially filtered sunlight to reach the brook, which is expected to significantly improve water quality and enhance the aquatic ecosystem.

Councillor Thomas Threlfall, Lead Member for Environment, commented: “These works represent an important step in our ongoing commitment to improve local waterways. By carefully managing the tree canopy, we can create better conditions for aquatic life while maintaining the overall environmental balance of this valued local asset.

‘’We're particularly grateful to United Utilities for their generous £50,000 donation which has made this important environmental project possible. I have worked tirelessly over the past 12 years to secure funding and improve the overall health of the brook, always with the wellbeing of local residents in mind, and I’m proud that we are now on track to achieve this.”

Iain Pilling, Area Engagement Lead for United Utilities, added: “We’re pleased to be working with Fylde Council to undertake some essential tree maintenance in the local area which will ultimately improve water quality in the brook, and the overall ecological benefits will be clear to see in years to come.

‘’Over the last five years, we’ve invested more than £330 million across Lancashire - working to improve our river health, capturing rainwater, building vital infrastructure and supporting local community projects.

“We are committed to continuing that partnership work to create a stronger, greener and healthier future for all.”

The works follow previous environmental improvements to Liggard Brook and form part of Fylde Council’s broader strategy to enhance natural habitats across the borough.