Noise fears over water pumps in Blackpool park

The council’s planning committee is being recommended to approve an application by United Utilities to build the facility in Anchorsholme Park as part of an £80m investment in an improved sewer system.

The scheme has already been deferred once after going before councillors in April.

Opponents to the plan are concerned the new pumping station will be built two metres above ground, which they fear will lead to noise disruption.

Anchorsholme ward councillor Tony Williams, who is among 36 people who have submitted objection letters, says: “With the pump motors being relocated from the deep basement location to above ground level, we have major concerns about noise pollution from the pumps with residents living so close to the pumps.”

But United Utilities says building the facility above ground will ensure easier access for maintenance, and adds the pumps will only be used around 12 times a year when unusually torrential rain creates a flooding risk.

In their report to the committee, planners say: “With regards to noise, the proposal has been examined and re-examined by public protection colleagues and there are not expected to be any noise issues arising from the pump station even with a small section of the pumps now two metres above ground level.”

The plans also include amenities for the park, but residents were unhappy some details, including replacing timber rails with steel ,had been changed which they claimed was ‘cost cutting’,

Following April’s deferment of the application, United Utilities has agreed changes including additional landscaping to screen the pumping station and paths to match the new Promenade.

Councillors will meet on Wednesday to consider the application.