Fylde Council update on 'sub-standard' road resurfacing work on major £1.6m Pier Link project in St Annes

Fylde Council has said areas of carriageway surfacing on the St Annes Pier Link do not meet the standards it expects and will be put right at no cost to the council.

In an update on the scheme, the council said: "We remain committed to delivering a Pier Link that St Annes can be proud of for many years to come. During our final quality inspections, we've identified some areas of carriageway surfacing that do not meet the standards we expect.

"Lancashire County Council, in its role as the Highway Authority, has been working jointly with the contractor to review the works, and the areas identified will be put right at no cost to the Council.

"Taking this time ensures the finished project is durable, high-quality and delivers value for money for our residents. We believe it is better to address any issues now than accept a result that falls short of the standard St Annes deserves.

"The necessary remedial works will be undertaken through the project's quality assurance and contractual arrangements to ensure the required standards are achieved before the scheme is completed."

The council said representatives from across the supply chain would meet early next week to agree the scope of the work.

"The aim is to return to site as soon as possible and, once the scope has been agreed and subject to suitable weather conditions, we are hopeful the works can be completed in less than a week,” its statement read. “We expect to provide a further update on timescales next week.

"Decisions around opening arrangements will be made once these final works and assessments have been completed. Please continue to rely on official Fylde Council channels for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

"Thank you for your patience as we work to deliver improvements that will make St Annes an even better place to live, work and visit."

Work on the £1.6m Pier Link scheme began on February 23 and was due at the time to take 18 weeks, taking it to late June. However, residents and visitors have been left frustrated as the work has continued through summer, including during major events such as the St Annes International Kite Festival and St Annes Carnival.

The stretch of St Annes Road West linking the Pier to the town centre has been closed to through traffic throughout, and access has been restricted for pedestrians for much of the scheme's duration.

Following overnight resurfacing last week, line painting has been carried out, notably including one-way markings on the previously two-way stretch of road. Once it reopens, drivers will be restricted to travelling away from town towards the pier and promenade, while cycling will be permitted the other way.

The project also includes wider pavements, new planting and additional seating. It is Phase 2 of Fylde Council's St Annes Masterplan, following the £1.13m refurbishment of St Annes Square completed last year.

Fylde Council has not committed to an exact opening date for the Pier Link.