Green dream revealed for new prom

The 1.5km strip of land which stretches from West Way to Fairway will be known as Larkholme Grasslands and is already classed as a Biological Heritage Site because of the rare species of flora and fauna that grow there.

Coun Roger Berry, Cabinet member with responsibility for sea defences at Wyre Council, said: “This landscaping work will bring the finishing touches to a fantastic new promenade and provide a much more attractive environment for those living behind the sea defences.

“We’re making the most of the area’s natural features.

“One aspect of the design we were asked to address was the visual impact of the wall from the highway and beyond. As a result, we’re raising the land so that just over a metre of seawall will be visible.”

The ecology park will feature artworks that bring to life the diverse range of marine species that give the area its Biological Heritage Site status.

Colourful aluminium grassland beacons designed by artist Stephen Broadbent will mark pedestrian access points along the promenade and act as way-finders connecting paths to the promenade.

The area will also include hand carved wooden artworks, seating, pathways and bridges.

Stephen said: “The new Rossall promenade and adjoining Larkholme Grasslands are a significant addition to the Wyre Way coastal path.

“It’s going to be very exciting for local schools and residents to see which plants, bugs and birds come to stay over the years to come.”

Two public information events are being held at Marine Hall, The Esplanade, Fleetwood for residents to drop in and find out more about plans to transform the site. They will be held on Wednesday April 12 from 2pm to 4pm and from 5pm to 7pm

Wyre Council is replacing two kilometres of defences, from Rossall Hospital to Rossall Point, in a £63m coastal defence scheme that will protect 7,500 properties from the risk of flooding.

The new sea defences are due to be completed in November. Larkholme Grasslands will be completed in spring 2018.