Blackpool’s famous seven miles of golden sands may soon have a rocky new addition, as a £57 million coastal defence project looks to tackle an urgent environmental crisis threatening the town’s homes, businesses, environment, and identity. The Blackpool Beach Management scheme, now open for public consultation, proposes the construction of 17 rock headlands along the central stretch of coastline from just south of South Pier to Cocker Square near North Pier. The aim is to stop the beaches from vanishing and protect thousands of homes, businesses and vital infrastructure from the growing risks of flooding and erosion.
Blackpool Council warned on its website, “we are losing our beaches” and that “unless urgent action is taken, Blackpool’s iconic beaches could be lost forever.” Beach levels along Blackpool’s coast have been steadily declining, and as sand disappears, the clay beneath becomes exposed, thereby weakening the natural barrier that protects the coast from storms and rising tides.
In some places, the foundations of historic structures like that of the Central Pier are now visible, highlighting the scale of the problem.
The council also stressed the potential impact this could have on tourism, warning that losing the beaches could damage the town’s appeal as 21.5 million visitors came to enjoy Blackpool’s seaside golden sands and lively promenade in the past year alone.
The proposed headlands will act like arms reaching out into the sea, creating sheltered bays where sand can settle and remain in place.
Each structure will be around 100 metres long and spaced about 150 metres apart to form a stable environment to trap the natural flow of sand brought in from offshore.
The design phase has been led by infrastructure specialists Jacobs, with construction expected to begin in spring 2026 and finish by spring 2029.
Councillor 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.”
The council is urging residents, business owners and visitors to share their thoughts before the planning application is submitted. The consultation runs until Friday October 31, and views can be submitted either online or via paper forms available at Blackpool Central Library.
In-person drop-in sessions are also being held including a major event on Friday September 19 at the Solaris Centre on New South Promenade from 10am to 4pm.