Nearly 60 objections lodged against rock groynes plan to save sands

A plan to install 17 rock groynes on the southern end of Blackpool’s beach has been hailed as the saviour of its famous golden sands – but almost 60 people and the RNLI are objecting.

And councillors on Blackpool’s planning committee are set to make a decision on this controversial scheme when it comes up for determination next week.

The heavy rock groynes are seen by many as the only workable solution to halt the worrying loss of the resort’s precious golden sands, a habitat which is at risk of being eroded away forever.

Apart from the importance as a tourist attraction and as a natural marine habitat, the beach sand provides vital protection to the shoreline from the ravages of the sea at a time of climate change.

But opponents say the solid rock structures are not safe for children who face the risk of being trapped in the face of oncoming tides.

Among the 56 people who have lodged objections are councillors Gerard Walsh, Julie Sloman and Jon Morgan.

Additionally, the RNLI is objecting because it says the rocks are in danger of impeding its vital rescue work.

On Tuesday September 1, the planning committee will consider the application for coastal defence works, comprising of installation of rock groynes and associated works including cross-over ramps, revetment tie-in structures, temporary construction compounds and periodic beach recharge on the upper beach, provision of temporary diversions and storage of waste prior to removal.

A report by the planning officer states: “Blackpool Council -the applicant – has been allocated funding from the Environment Agency to construct new rock groynes on the beach which would trap sand and stabilise the beach.

“The design of the scheme has been informed by knowledge gained by the applicant and their consultants in constructing neighbouring coastal defence/management schemes.

“The application proposes to construct 17 new rock groynes at the site (structures built perpendicular to the shoreline to trap sand).

“Each groyne would be of a slightly different design and, on average, each would extend approximately 100m from the existing sea wall.

“The groynes would be broadly in 3 different shapes – some would be Y-shaped, some would be straight and some would be dog-legged/sock shaped.

“The scheme would reduce the risk of coastal erosion and flooding by helping to stabilise the existing revetment, reduce overtopping from the sea and stabilise and retain the upper beach.

“The scheme is anticipated to be constructed by Balfour Beatty over a 31-month duration between Autumn 2026 and June 2029.”

The planning committee is being recommended to support the proposal and delegate approval to the Head of Development Management, subject to confirmation that the scheme would not result in any likely significant effects in accordance with the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations.