A new £27 million flood alleviation scheme has opened in Blackpool.

The development at Anchorsholme was built by Balfour Beatty and will help to protect 4,800 properties from coastal flooding, as well as vital infrastructure and a major pumping station.

The scheme was officially unveiled by Blackpool Council Cabinet Member for Environmental Services, Cllr Fred Jackson and the Chair of the Environment Agency Emma Howard Boyd today, 30 October.

Features included replacing one kilometre of concrete sea wall while maintaining access to the beach. A new promenade to attract residents and visitors also links with the seafront to the nearby Anchorsholme Park, which is being redeveloped.

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The scheme forms part of the Fylde Peninsula Coastal Programme, a partnership between the Environment Agency and Wyre, Blackpool and Fylde councils to reduce flood risk to people and develop historic and natural environments.

Emma Howard Boyd, Chair of the Environment Agency, said: "Blackpool's iconic beachfront is visited by thousands of families each year. This new coastal defence, delivered in partnership with local councils, will better protect the town's popular tourist attractions as well as nearly 5,000 homes and businesses.

"It's great news and demonstrates how our work benefits people and the environment."

Cllr Jackson said: "I am delighted that this vital sea defence scheme has been officially opened. We now have a sea wall that will provide much stronger flood protection for years to come."

(LM/MH)