Prom road set to re-open

Princes Way closed in spring 2014 as part of the construction of the £27m sea defences at Anchorsholme which are now nearing completion.

It will re-open in mid- November to ease potential congestion when Anchorsholme Lane West closes soon after for the renovations at Anchorsholme Park by United Utilities, making total investment of around £100m.

Princes Way, which was prone to severe flooding during bad weather and high tides, has now been raised to the same level as Anchorsholme Park.

This provides easier access to the park from the Promenade and will prevent the road from being flooded.

Coun Fred Jackson, Blackpool Council’s cabinet member for municipal assets, said: “As well as the road re-opening to traffic, most of the new sea front promenade will be available for people to use.

“With the road being completely closed to all traffic while the construction work has gone on, people will barely recognise the area when they revisit.

“The road has been elevated significantly and the battered old sea defences have been replaced with a brand new public realm that not only is pleasant to visit but, more importantly, keeps the sea at bay.

“Over £100m worth of investment is taking place in Anchorsholme at the moment with the sea defence scheme and United Utilities reconstruction of the park.

“I am extremely grateful to the neighbours for being so patient while the construction work continues and can guarantee them that the end result will be worth the short term disruption.”

Once completed the new sea defences will provide better flood protection to around 4,500 properties.

Some additional work to the headland adjacent to Princes Way will need to be completed in the new year when temporary traffic lights will be required.

Simon Barker, project director at Balfour Beatty which is carrying out the work, said: “The series of major new coastal defences across Rossall and Anchorsholme represents the largest flood defence programme in the UK currently.

“Local residents have been very supportive and understanding of the necessary closure of the promenade, so we’re pleased they’ll soon be able to view the results of this vital work to protect properties and businesses in this community.”

The United Utilities development will see a new underground stormwater tank at Anchorsholme Park as well as new public amenities including a cafe and bowling club building, landscaping, footpaths, a multi-use games area and children’s playground.