People in Rossall and Anchorsholme in Lancashire will be better protected from the risk of flooding thanks to £85 million of government funding towards two new major sea defences.
The new sea defences near Blackpool form part of one of the UK’s biggest coastal defence schemes.
In total, they will protect 12,000 homes and businesses as well as vital infrastructure like roads and railways.
The sea defence in Rossall will be 2km long, from Rossall Hospital to Rossall Point.
The Anchorsholme sea defence will stretch 1km from Kingsway to Little Bispham.
Both sea defences are starting construction ahead of schedule.
Speaking at the launch of the construction in Blackpool, Environment Secretary Owen Paterson said:
“ These new sea defences will provide vital protection to homes and the local economy and I’m delighted to see construction starting today.
“ This winter’s extraordinary weather showed just how important it is to invest in infrastructure to build a stronger economy.
“ We are spending more than ever before to protect homes and businesses from the risk of flooding and build a more resilient country for the future .”
Partnership funding contributions from Wyre Council, Fleetwood Town Council and Regenda Housing have also helped to fund the works.
The government is spending £2.4 billion on flood management and protection from coastal erosion. That is more than ever before and the record investment will continue. By the end of the decade, at least 465,000 households will be better protected from the risk of flooding.
Across the country, 55 flood defence schemes will begin construction this year, delivering better protection to 43,000 properties.
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Press Release, April 11, 2014